A woman practices tai chi at Xiaoyan Pagoda Historic Culture Park in Xi'an

A former kick boxer is trying to spread tai chi to youngsters in the city with free training classes that have attracted hundreds of white-collar workers, the sort of people who previously scoffed at the martial art as something to keep the elderly busy.

Huang Zhongda, who spent 10 years mastering tai chi before opening up a training center at Shanghai Stadium last December, says many young people are taking up the exercise to stay fit.

His center offers free training for beginners, but members who wish to master the skill are expected to pay for lessons.

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