As winter sports gain traction across China, figure skating has emerged as a standout favorite. According to data from market consultancy iiMedia Research, about 52 percent of Chinese winter sports hobbyists chose figure skating in 2024. Wang Zhixuan, a 21-year-old college student at Capital University of Economics and Business, is leading the charge.

Wang initially encountered ice skating in middle school. About one year ago, she discovered a local skating club through the social media platform Douyin and the online review platform Dianping and decided to reignite her interest.

"I visited the club for a trial session and soon signed up for a membership," she said. "The more I skated, the more I fell in love with it."

Despite her enthusiasm, mastering spins on ice proved challenging. "My coach told me that I need to practice more to acquire the technique. This pushed me to improve."

Her perseverance paid off when she participated in an Ice Skating Institute Asia competition. "Choosing my music and costume was incredibly rewarding, but I was nervous on stage," she said. However, the audience's encouragement, expressed through the tradition of throwing plush toys, left a lasting impression.

Figure skating has made Wang more confident and provided her with an escape from academic pressure. "On the ice, I feel unique and beautiful, like a swan."

The sport also introduced her to a diverse community of friends, from seasoned coaches offering life advice to younger skaters sharing their joy.

Looking ahead, Wang is committed to advancing her skills and spreading the joy of figure skating. "I want to challenge the perception that it's a high-barrier sport and share its beauty with everyone," she added.