Master your passion

Physical activity contributes to improving quality of life, increasing immunity, and maintaining sustainable academic performance.

Instead of pursuing sports as their sole goal, many Gen Z see it as an integral part of their lives, a testament to discipline, a source of healthy energy, and a positive lifestyle.

Happiness on both races

Nguyen Thi Kim Anh (20 years old, from Hue) is currently studying construction economics . Alongside that, Anh has been pursuing tug-of-war for six years. "Strong, persistent, and compassionate" are the keywords her friends often use to describe Anh.

She has a strong passion for this sport that demands teamwork and individual skill. The dramatic and exciting matches have strengthened Anh's belief in her choice. She confidently asserts that she will never give up, even when juggling two tasks simultaneously: excelling in her studies and competing well.

Ánh has always loved running, jumping, and physical activity since she was a child. In 9th grade, she tried tug-of-war for the first time with her peers and had exciting experiences that motivated her to stick with the sport until now. As a member of the local team, Ánh has had frequent opportunities to compete. With the support of her friends, teammates, and coach, Ánh trains even more seriously. Initially, her family was worried about her participating in sports, fearing it would affect her studies. This was when Ánh had to think carefully and skillfully allocate her time. And her efforts truly paid off. Ánh and her teammates have won dozens of gold, silver, and bronze medals in various competitions in Ho Chi Minh City. This is even more meaningful as Ánh has not let her academic performance suffer.

When physical fitness improves, the mind becomes clearer, which helps in absorbing knowledge. Therefore, after graduating from university, although she had no intention of becoming a professional athlete, Anh decided to prioritize her favorite sport.

Tug-of-war not only helps Nguyen Thi Kim Anh (fourth from the left) improve her physical fitness but also hones her soft skills. Photo: TRAN QUAN

Kim Ánh actively participates in meaningful community activities.

Forging character

For Bui Minh Tuong (19 years old, from Binh Thuan province), getting involved in athletics is wonderful. "All you need is a pair of shoes and perseverance to fully experience this challenging yet joyful track," Tuong confided.

The 1.75m tall young man is a maritime management student and also an athlete on his hometown team. His youthful journey, which he has been charting for himself, is not only filled with diligent study and lectures but also countless long-distance runs that leave him sweating profusely. His middle school physical education teacher recognized his exceptional talent, his long strides, and his extraordinary endurance. Tưởng has won top prizes in numerous amateur running competitions and the Phu Dong Sports Festival at the provincial level. Recently, he and his teammates won second place in the 30th National Cross-Country Mountain Climbing Championship "Conquering the Peak of Ba Ra" - 2025.

Witnessing their son's dedication to his studies and his steadily improving health, Tưởng's parents always encouraged and supported him. Despite suffering an injury that forced him to stop running for a month, Tưởng overcame the difficult period and learned a valuable lesson: rest is also part of training. Upon returning, he became even more diligent and valued every step he took.

According to Tưởng, young people passionate about sports today have many advantages: technological advancements provide diverse information, and nutrition and training programs are constantly improving. However, there are still many other objective factors that easily distract young people. Therefore, each individual needs clear direction if they want to excel in their professional work while also pursuing their favorite sport.

Instead of wasting time on short-term distractions, outside of school and training, Kim Anh and Minh Tuong enthusiastically participate in student activities, socializing, building friendships, and volunteer projects. Regular participation in sports helps Gen Z individuals like them become more resilient and adaptable, building a foundation for holistic development. Through this, they become increasingly mature and responsible towards themselves and the community.

Not only excelling on the track, Bui Minh Tuong also consistently maintains excellent academic results (Photo provided by the subject).

Source: https://nld.com.vn/lam-chu-dam-me-196250802185304755.htm