Shaolin-style kungfu and dancing have replaced traditional morning exercises for the new term at many primary schools in Zhengzhou, capital of Henan Province, according to the report by the Henan Commercial News.

It is the first time Shaolin kungfu has been part of the curriculum in the central Chinese province where the world-renowned Shaolin Temple is situated.

The introduction of dance and kungfu are intended to raise interest in exercise. Students around the country are generally eating more and working out less, leading to increasing obesity, according to recent media reports.

(China Daily September 18, 2007)