Fall In Love With a Sport

Zhejiang University has a strong and vibrant sports culture. According to university regulations, students are required to clock in 48 exercise sessions per semester. Male students must complete a 3 km run within 30 minutes, while female students are required to finish 2 km within 20 minutes. As a result, the university’s running track is often bustling with activity at night—some students jogging, others sprinting or walking—creating a lively and energetic atmosphere under the moonlight. In addition to outdoor runs, students are allowed to substitute up to 12 of their clock-in sessions with indoor venue activities.

Venue clock-ins include a variety of indoor activities, such as playing volleyball or basketball in the gym, or even enjoying a game of soccer on the old soccer field. Badminton and table tennis are also popular choices among students. However, reservations for these venues are highly competitive—you need to book exactly three days in advance to secure a spot.

The university has also established coaching stations for specific sports, such as golf and basketball. These sessions are primarily designed for students enrolled in related sports electives, but non-elective students are also welcome to participate. For elective students, the coaching helps them refine their skills and aim for higher scores in their final assessments, while non-elective students can explore new interests and experience different sports in an engaging environment.

Additionally, Zhejiang University offers specialized sports teams such as dragon dance, lion dance, and kayaking. These teams undergo rigorous training, which includes early morning physical conditioning—like running 3 kilometers at 6 a.m.—as well as meeting specific body fat percentage requirements. A strong physique and systematic training help ensure that team members remain competitive in various events. After completing the required training, students have the opportunity to represent Zhejiang University in competitions.

At Zhejiang University, there are countless opportunities to explore and enjoy a wide range of physical activities. I'm sure you’ll find a sport you’ll fall in love with here.