A new fitness trend dubbed the “face-hanging workout” is gaining attention in Shenyang, a city in northern China, where older adults are reportedly using it as a remedy for sleep issues and spinal discomfort.
Participants can be seen in parks attaching U-shaped belts to trees or playground bars and looping them around their chins, gently swaying their bodies in the air. While this unusual activity may seem unconventional, it has sparked a growing movement among seniors seeking alternative treatments for cervical spondylosis, a common age-related condition.
The technique was developed by 57-year-old Sun Rongchun, who designed the face-hanging workout as a personal solution to his neck problems. Rongchun has since trademarked the device and applied for a patent. He now visits public parks daily to demonstrate its use and promote the practice.
“My cervical spine used to be in poor condition, making it difficult to sleep,” one participant told local media. “After trying the face-hanging workout, my symptoms improved significantly. I’ve been doing this for two years.”
Despite its popularity, medical professionals have raised serious safety concerns. Sleep science coach Rosie Osmun of Amerisleep warns that the face-hanging workout can pose serious risks, including nerve damage, stroke, or even death if not performed correctly.
“Hanging any part of the body, especially the neck, is inherently dangerous,” said Osmun. “People are drawn to dramatic health trends, but there are safer, evidence-based methods available.”
Physical therapist Dr. Jennifer Miller also criticized the practice, noting that medical traction involves precise, controlled force—unlike the improvised setups used in parks. “This is an uncontrolled physics experiment on the spinal cord,” she said.
At least one fatal incident has been reported, where an individual accidentally looped the belt around his neck instead of his chin.
Experts continue to caution the public against attempting the face-hanging workout without proper guidance, emphasizing that the pursuit of better sleep should never compromise personal safety.
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