Zhao Xiaodong from the Sports Institute of CDUT (third from right, second row)

On August 16, the climbing events of the 12th World Games wrapped up at Chengdu Tianfu Central Park. China’s Climbing Team delivered its best performance since first competing in the Games’ climbing category in 2009, securing 10 medals in total, 5 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze. Zhao Xiaodong, a faculty member of the Sports Institute at CDUT, served as head fitness coach for the national speed climbing team, accompanying the squad through every stage of preparation and making vital contributions to their championship success.

With Champion Long Jianguo

In the lead-up to the Games, Zhao developed tailored training programs for each athlete, covering technique, fitness, and mental conditioning. His professional expertise and tireless dedication gave athletes the strength and resilience to perform at their peak. For the sake of national honor and personal conviction, he set aside family obligations to devote himself fully the rigorous training campaign. In doing so, he laid the foundation for China’s emerging speed climbing fitness system, a framework that has already produced impressive results.

Zhao Xiaodong Conducting Fitness Testing and Training with Athletes

This year’s competition brought together 72 elite speed climbers from 12 countries, including the world record holder and the Olympic champion from Paris. After three days of fierce contests, the 18 medals were all decided. Looking ahead, the China’s climbing team is preparing for the 2025 IFSC Climbing World Championships in Seoul, South Korea. Zhao will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the athletes, applying his experience and expertise to help the team aim higher and write the next chapter of glory.

For more: CCTV 5 Sports Close-Up interviewed Zhao Xiaodong: https://tv.cctv.com/2025/08/14/VIDEefaAnVqioJiRQGXN3tp9250814.shtml