Chengdu isn't just about spicy hot pot and pandas 🐼—it's now making waves in an unexpected way: freediving! With The World Games 2025 on the horizon, the city’s newest deep pools are becoming hotspots for city dwellers craving a breath of calm.
Freediving, the sport where divers hold their breath and explore underwater worlds without tanks, is booming in the Chinese mainland. Growth rates here are soaring well above the global average, as more young people trade screen time for underwater zen. It’s a niche sport turned lifestyle movement, blending fitness, mindfulness, and urban adventure.
Enter Alexey Molchanov, world champion freediver and social media icon. When he dropped by one of Chengdu’s coolest pools, fans lined up (social distancing safe!) to meet him, snap selfies 🤳, and soak up his tips on stretching, breath-hold techniques, and conquering mental blocks.
"Freediving taught me patience and self-awareness," Molchanov shared. "It’s not just about depth—it’s about finding peace, one breath at a time." His visit highlighted how urban freediving pools are more than training grounds; they’re community hubs where newbies and pros bond over shared thrills and underwater playlists 🎶.
With The World Games 2025 spotlighting niche sports, these deep pools are set to become even trendier. Freediving in Chengdu offers a cool escape from city stress—one breath at a time. 🤿🌊
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
