Twenty-three teams, totaling more than 240 people from local martial arts organizations, participate in the first martial arts competition held in Zhoushan in eastern Zhejiang province on June 23. [Photo/WeChat account: zsqdly]

Martial arts enthusiasts in Zhoushan, in eastern Zhejiang province, had the chance to show off their skills at the city's first martial arts tournament on June 23.

The competition, hosted by the city's tourism and sports bureau and sports federation, attracted the participation of 23 teams of more than 240 people from local martial arts organizations. 

Altogether, 64 events were held. Since participants ranged in age from six to 83, the events were divided into various groups for children, teenagers, the middle-aged and seniors.

Seniors perform tai chi, or shadow boxing, at the first martial arts competition in Zhoushan on June 23. [Photo/WeChat account: zsqdly] 

Martial arts have been gaining popularity in Zhoushan in recent years. 

"More and more kids are starting to learn martial arts," said Tu Zhugang, a coach from a local martial arts organization, adding that the sport also represented a culture and a spirit, and that it not only helps self-defense and does good for health, but also helps shape kids' characters.

"Shadow boxing is more of a mental exercise than a physical sport. It helps me strengthen my body and mind," said a 73-year-old participant.

Participants showcase their swordsmanship at the first martial arts competition in Zhoushan on June 23. [Photo/WeChat account: zsqdly]