Taiwan is pursuing a nationwide fitness movement

2026 marathon

Recently, Taiwan has been quite lively. Besides the recently concluded Alex's freestyle climb of Taipei 101, the Taiwanese government will begin issuing NT$500 "sports credits" annually starting in 2026. These credits can be used for various purposes beyond just "exercising" and "watching games," now including "purchasing equipment." Each person can use up to NT$200 to purchase sportswear, equipment, or gear.

▲ xtra participate in the marathon every year.

From north to south, Taiwan boasts national sports centers. With today's busy lifestyles, these centers are springing up like mushrooms after rain, becoming oases in the city. Each center features a fully equipped fitness center (gym), a comfortable swimming pool, sauna, or badminton and basketball courts. Shower areas are also provided, allowing participants to take a hot shower after their workout before heading to their next destination.

Taipei City Zhongzheng District Sports Center

Since the 1990s, with economic development and the lifting of martial law, sports and leisure have become intertwined in Taiwan. After 2010 (especially since 2013), the number of gyms surged, national sports centers emerged, and health awareness increased after the pandemic, resulting in a record high proportion of people exercising regularly. Moreover, sports centers in Taiwan offer high value for money, making it affordable for many citizens to easily access and use the fitness equipment.

Koreans think that working out in Taiwan is very cheap.

Scottish footballer Andrew also fell in love with Taipei.