A man in China with only one arm and one leg who took part in a bodybuilding competition, attracting thunderous applause at site and massive admiration on social media.
The muscular Liu Xinju, 32, joined The 20th Bodybuilding Competition in Jinan, the capital city of eastern Shandong province, which was held on May 10.
Videos of his performance on stage went viral on mainland social media. Many people were moved and inspired by Liu, who consequently earned the nickname Encouraging Brother, the China Youth Daily reported.
Liu lost his right arm and right leg in a road accident 10 years ago.
For some time following the accident, he was demoralised and spent all his time lying in bed playing on his mobile phone. His eyesight deteriorated dramatically as a result.
His family lifted him out of his state by goading him: “You are useless,” Liu recalled them saying.
He then devoted himself to physical workouts, partly because he had been an athlete before.
“I just fell down, I did not die. Why do you believe I cannot get up?” Liu responded to those questioning his ability to handle his future.
“I am disabled. But as long as my heart is not disabled, I will always be healthy and happy,” he added.
In the latest bodybuilding competition, Liu joined the category for people weighing 65kg or less, according to the report.
It is not clear what result he achieved in this contest.
“The players in my category include two champions of Shandong province. I heard they work very hard. It is my honour to compete with them on the same stage,” Liu was quoted as saying.
One audience member, surnamed Yu, said when Liu appeared on stage everyone in the hall applauded for him.
“This is the best recognition for him. Our hearts are full of admiration for him,” Yu told the media.
“Liu reflects the spirit of honesty and optimism. His story inspires us, lighting the road ahead for many people,” he added.
It was not revealed what Liu does for a living. He once said in a video clip on his social media account that he receives 1,100 yuan (US$160) a month from the local public social welfare insurance scheme targeting people with a low-income.
“My biggest wish is that I can do something to reward the gym which allows me to work out in its area for free,” said Liu.
The story stirred a flurry of complimentary comments online.
“He is a superman. He deserves the respect from all of us,” one person wrote.
Another person said: “Bro, you are awesome. Compared with you, what I have experienced amounts to nothing.” -- SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST
