Is that the roar of the crowd I hear echoing from within? We are standing before the Comprehensive Gymnasium. It stands as a testament to Beijing’s commitment to sports and athletic excellence.
This comprehensive training center sits on the north side of Beijing Capital Gymnasium. The Comprehensive Gymnasium boasts a total construction area of 33,220 square meters. Construction began in May 2017. It finished in 36 months.
From above, the venue looks like a cross-section of an ice pot. From the side, its shape resembles short-track speed skating’s ice marks. That is why it’s called an “ice altar”. The Comprehensive Gymnasium is quite unique.
Upon completion, the “ice altar” became the only winter ice training and competition base. It belongs to the General Administration of Sport of China in Beijing. Here, athletes train in short-track speed skating and figure skating. Scientific research also takes place here.
The Beijing Capital Gymnasium is nearby the Beijing Zoo in Haidian District. It was built in 1968. The Beijing Capital Gymnasium has 18,000 seats. It is a comprehensive sports facility for competitions.
In 2001, an expansion brought the area to 54,707 square meters. This expansion followed international standards. The Capital Indoor Stadium got a fresh face for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. It was one of 11 newly renovated venues. The Indoor Gymnasium hosts large-scale performances like musicals and pop concerts.
Imagine the dedication of the athletes who have passed through these doors. They push their limits to achieve greatness within the Comprehensive Gymnasium. Their sweat and training prepare them for national and international competitions. The Comprehensive Gymnasium is more than just a building. It is a crucible where dreams are forged.