So many Vietnamese people we meet are very keen to tell us that they exercise, and that it is important for mind and body. Every morning, the lakes of the city are surrounded by many Hanoians doing their morning workout. This takes the form of walking or running, tai chi, or badminton. Tennis and soccer are also very popular, but are more an after-work social activity. (Russell's been asked to join FPT workmates on the tennis court!).
The funny thing is that whilst there is such an emphasis on making sure you DO exercise, they don't seem to take the actual activities overly seriously. It seems more a nice time of day to catch up with friends and family. When Russell goes for his serious runs - on his own! - they don't know what to make of it!!
We have seen many funny sights of old VN-ese people doing their morning "exercise" which often consists of a flick of the wrists, or a tilt of the head, whilst maintaining an incredibly serious expression! Very cute!
We saw this guy by the lake the other night... intense!
