A unique competition took place in Baotou City, Inner Mongolia, where a 23-year-old man emerged victorious after lying down for an impressive 33 hours and 35 minutes. This “lying flat” contest attracted 240 participants, all seeking to showcase their endurance in this unconventional event, inspired by the popular tang ping mindset, which emphasizes opting out of relentless productivity and embracing a more relaxed lifestyle.
The contest unfolded in a shopping center, with strict rules governing participants’ behavior. Contestants were allowed to use their phones, eat takeout, or read books, but standing, sitting, or leaving the designated mattress would lead to disqualification. While rolling from side to side was permitted, the primary objective was to remain horizontal, creating a challenge that tested not only physical endurance but also mental resolve.
As the hours progressed, the number of participants dwindled. After just 24 hours, 186 individuals had dropped out, leaving a smaller contingent of determined competitors. Many opted for diapers to avoid bathroom breaks that would risk elimination. Organizers introduced minor challenges to heighten the stakes, further contributing to the attrition as the contest continued.
By the 30-hour mark, only a few remained in the competition. At 33 hours and 9 minutes, three contestants were still clinging to their mattresses. A mere two minutes later, one more participant withdrew, setting the stage for the final showdown. This last confrontation lasted approximately twenty minutes, culminating in a dramatic finish.
The champion, who initially joined the contest at the suggestion of his girlfriend, shared his thoughts on the experience with the Xiaoxiang Morning Herald. “I did not do much preparation. In the middle of the competition, I thought of giving up. But my girlfriend told me to carry on,” he recounted. The winner received a cash prize of 3,000 yuan (around $420), while the second and third place competitors took home 2,000 yuan and 1,000 yuan, respectively. He plans to celebrate his victory with a hotpot dinner for friends who supported him during the contest.
The event rapidly gained popularity online, with local media reporting that the livestream attracted approximately 10 million viewers and garnered over eight million comments. Many viewers expressed their amusement and disbelief at the competition’s premise, with one participant claiming they could endure up to seventy hours if provided with sufficient phone chargers. Another posed the question that resonated with many: “What is the point of this contest?”
In an era increasingly fixated on productivity and constant activity, the success of this contest may serve as a reminder that rest and relaxation can also be celebrated. The concept of lying down as a competitive sport, while unconventional, reflects a broader cultural shift towards valuing downtime and mental well-being. The event not only entertained but also highlighted an emerging trend where rest can indeed be profitable, challenging the conventional notions of success and achievement.
