Chinese Man Wins "Lying Flat" Competition After Staying on Mattress for Over 33 Hours
A man in Inner Mongolia has been crowned champion of a national "lying flat" contest after remaining on a mattress for more than 33 hours without standing up, sitting up, or leaving his bed space. The event, held in a large shopping mall in Baotou, drew national attention and sparked lively discussion about modern work culture and the growing appeal of low-stress living.
The competition began at 10:18 a.m. on a Saturday, with 240 participants lying down on individual mattresses provided by the organizers, a home-furnishings company hosting the event for the third consecutive year. Competitors could use their phones, read, eat meals, chat, or rest freely—so long as they did not get off the mattress, even to go to the restroom. Many contestants wore adult diapers to avoid disqualification.
Over the first 24 hours, exhaustion took its toll. Participants tapped out steadily, and by the morning of the next day, only 54 remained. Despite the simplicity of the contest, competitors frequently cited unexpected difficulties: swollen limbs, mental boredom, or the challenge of staying still for extended periods without relief.
As the number of finalists shrank, organizers introduced additional small challenges—such as lifting legs or raising arms—to test stamina and concentration. Spectators at the mall watched the contest develop, while tens of millions more reportedly tuned in via livestream to follow the slow but dramatic battle of endurance.
By the 33-hour mark, only three participants were left. One dropped out minutes later, leaving a tense final showdown between the last two. Finally, at 33 hours and 35 minutes, one of the remaining competitors conceded, making the lone remaining participant the champion. The winner received a prize of 3,000 yuan (roughly 420 USD), while second and third place received smaller cash awards.
The contest resonated widely with young Chinese audiences, who have popularized the concept of "tang ping," or "lying flat," a social movement embracing minimalism and rejecting high-pressure work culture and endless competition. For many viewers, the contest symbolized a humorous but relatable escape from societal expectations.
Social media commentary ranged from admiration to satire. "This is the only competition I might actually be able to win," one commenter joked. Others took a more cynical view, saying the event reflected how economic pressures have made young people feel exhausted and unable to keep up with traditional aspirations.
Despite the debate, the event's popularity suggests that the idea of "lying flat"—once seen as fringe or rebellious—has become a mainstream cultural phenomenon. Organizers have already announced plans to continue the competition next year, with hopes of expanding participation and viewership even further.
No comments:
Post a Comment