Gamers Are Fierce

When the reform policy for physical education in college entrance examinations first emerged, the vast majority of people were skeptical. Testing cultural subjects was one thing, but why should high school students also master firearms shooting, firearms maintenance, comprehensive fighting, and combat? Wasn’t this absurd? What if casualties occurred?

However, the authorities were resolute in implementing the sports program reforms, determined to see them through. They specially selected a group of elite soldiers from the military, all possessing top-notch political acumen, knowledge, moral integrity, psychological and physiological fitness, and operational skills. After training, these soldiers were dispatched to various high schools to serve as instructors.

Yin City, an international hub for finance, trade, shipping, and technological innovation, was naturally chosen to pilot this significant policy. Consequently, Experimental Middle School of Yin City, a key institution, became one ofin the first pilot schools.

One afternoon, after math class, the students of Experimental Middle School assembled on the playground to listen to the leaders’ mobilization speech for the new military-style physical education curriculum.

"Respected leaders, instructors, dear teachers, students, and parents, hello! In accordance with the Ministry of Education’s requirements, our school will launch a military-style physical education program..."

"...To achieve the grand goals of national prosperity, public affluence, and ethnic rejuvenation, we must vigorously strengthen our national defense while continuing to prioritize economic development..."

"Next, I would like to present three requirements for our students. Firstly..."

The tedious speech failed to capture the interest of most students. Except for a few troublemakers thrilled at the prospect of handling real firearms, the majority felt quite apprehensive.

According to the documents previously distributed by the school, this "physical education class" was, in reality, two hours of military-style training every evening. The training began with strength exercises like weighted squats, push-ups, and barbells, followed by speed drills such as sprinting and jump roping. Next came anaerobic endurance training, including interval and repeated runs, along with stretching for flexibility and coordination. After consuming functional drinks provided by the education department, students would move on to military exercises like formation training and firearms shooting. The session concluded with vehicle driving practice, comprehensive fighting, and combat training.

A two-hour physical education class, packed to the brim with activities and held every evening—it sounded utterly exhausting.