Up and Running at 4AM

For the absent-minded travelers who forget to book their hotel and arrive in Hanoi in the early morning, lost and confused, one of the best things to do is to watch, and wonder about the locals who rise at 4 a.m. to exercise. To the amazement of many health enthusiasts, this is indeed a community that loves to stay active.

Vietnamese people are known for their early rising habits, a key differentiator that many Western visitors soon discover. Although Western lifestyles have begun to influence some segments of the younger population, the middle-aged and older people—along with many under 30—still prefer to retire early and wake at dawn. Parks in the early morning are bustling with individuals of all ages. Young men jog with abandon, while teenage girls enthusiastically pass the shuttlecock and men and women in their 60s enjoy their morning jogs peacefully.

Besides their already nutritious rice-dominant diet, Vietnamese people place a high priority on physical fitness. Makeshift gyms abound throughout the country. It’s common to see fitness enthusiasts utilizing homemade dumbbells, pull-up bars, and other gymnastic tools. The renowned creativity of the Vietnamese is evident as they repurpose public furnishings into workout equipment—men can often be seen doing crunches with their legs tucked behind benches or performing pull-ups on tree branches. This resourceful ingenuity, although unorthodox and sometimes risky, showcases the vibrant spirit of these energetic individuals who believe the rewards of their efforts far outweigh the dangers.

While proper gyms remain somewhat limited, numerous smaller, budget-friendly facilities can be found nearly everywhere, offering more equipment than their makeshift counterparts. The downside is that many of these gyms lack certified trainers, instruction, and structured programs, leaving individuals to navigate their fitness journeys on their own. These establishments tend to attract dedicated young men striving to gain muscle in a short period, with some resorting to illegal steroids that circulate within select social circles. On the other hand, pricier venues such as the well-known California Fitness in Ho Chi Minh City and the recently established Elite Fitness in Hanoi feature stricter regulations and higher-quality equipment, staffed by qualified trainers. These facilities appeal to both men and women of various ages, often of an affluent background.

People exercising in a park in Vietnam

Women also have their share of affordable exercise options. Aerobics remains a popular choice for both young girls and older women, with the number of aerobics studios having once rivaled that of gyms catering to men. Additionally, outdoor classes fill the sidewalks with groups of women moving rhythmically to the beats resonating from loudspeakers. Many Westerners and Vietnamese alike regard this "fascinating" sight as uniquely characteristic of the country. In recent years, other fitness trends have emerged, gaining dedicated followers. Yoga has slowly risen in popularity, although it has never reached trend status. Belly dancing enjoyed significant popularity back in 2009, whereas, currently, pole and chair dancing are having their moment. Due to the exotic origins of these practices and criticism from conservative segments of society, many practitioners opt to keep their passion discreet, often telling their spouses that they’re “just going to the gym.”

Ballroom dancing also enjoys considerable popularity among locals; however, there is a divide in its following. While many younger enthusiasts favor energetic styles like salsa or tango, the middle-aged crowd tends to appreciate slower, more intimate dances. Both street and traditional classes are available for this activity, and the attendance fees remain quite affordable. Unlike aerobics, which many practice early in the morning, most ballroom classes take place in the late afternoon, allowing participants to unwind before heading home for dinner.

For older adults who may find the youthful exercises too strenuous, tai chi offers a gentler alternative. Each morning, hundreds gather to practice this ancient martial art. Participants believe tai chi enhances concentration and overall well-being. Various moves exist within tai chi—some focus purely on body movement, while others incorporate hand fans or blades. This slower-paced practice caters to the needs of older individuals, which explains the high level of dedication among practitioners.

 A group of Vietnamese seniors practicing Tai Chi

Whether one embraces the idea or not, exercising in Vietnam is about more than just fitness; it also serves as a means of social interaction. For younger people, the gym represents an opportunity to meet and flirt with others. Teenagers can often be seen in short skirts, carrying racquets while strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake. As one local humorously observed, “to play with the balls” reflects that the experience isn’t solely about exercise. The gym can be a social hub where individuals form connections, discuss recent happenings, or check in with friends. Given that Vietnamese people often live closely with their families into retirement, many older adults come to these spaces for comfort and companionship during their quieter days. The gym has truly evolved into a community space, transcending mere workouts.

As Western lifestyles continue to permeate daily life, Vietnam is anticipated to see a growing divide among its population regarding health and fitness approaches. Nevertheless, one won't need nostalgia to envision the sight of an elder practicing tai chi by the serene waters of West Lake anytime soon. It's a tradition that is definitely here to stay!