Remember when first coming to China thinking that this was a playground for children.  Infact there are many of these public areas with exercise equipment, and they are for adults, not children as I first thought. The areas are often frequented by old folk – especially early morning – eager to keep themselves flexible.  I often see groups of retired people dancing to traditional music, or not so traditional music (phil collins, kenny G amongst others) in the evening.  Sometimes if i’m up and about (5-5.30ish so not very often!) you’ll see ceremonial sword dancing and 武術 wu shu – martial arts.  Wish I could get up reguarly at that time, as i’d like to find out more.