Qi Zai, the world’s only brown-and-white panda in captivity, is taking part in regular winter exercise at the Qinling Giant Panda Research Centre in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province. Born in 2009 and weighing about 110 kilograms, Qi Zai stands out for his rare colouring, the result of a genetic mutation.

To build strength in colder months, keepers encourage pandas to stand on their hind legs and follow treats placed inside a bamboo pole. The short training sessions, held twice daily from November, last five to ten minutes and take place after meals.

“They generally start participating… after they become three,” said keeper Xue Wangli, noting the programme is designed to strengthen limbs. While younger pandas are still learning to stand, Qi Zai can walk upright for longer periods.

Experts say the tailored exercises engage the whole body and significantly boost hind limb strength, supporting essential activities such as climbing, walking and mating.

Source: China Central Television