Students practice tap-dancing at Jilin Provincial University for Senior in Changchun, Jilin province. [Photo by Gao Longan/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Since retirement in 2005, Zhao Ping has taken one class a week to learn tap-dancing at Jilin Provincial University for Seniors in Changchun, Jilin province.

Zhao, 74, was among the first group of students when the university began to offer a tap-dancing course in 2005.

"Tap-dancing helps me keep healthy and in a good state of mind," she said. "I haven't missed a class since I started the course."

During each two-hour session, Zhao carefully follows each movement of the teacher and continues to practice at home after class.

Students practice tap-dancing at Jilin Provincial University for Senior in Changchun, Jilin province. [Photo by Gao Longan/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Now the course has 24 students — average age 66.

They have been to different provinces, including Shandong and Shaanxi, for competitions and performances.

Zhao will graduate next month.

"I cherish the precious time at the university, but I will never stop dancing as long as I can move," she said. "Tap-dancing has a unique charm. Anywhere can become a stage to give people pleasure."

Students practice tap-dancing at Jilin Provincial University for Senior in Changchun, Jilin province. [Photo by Gao Longan/For chinadaily.com.cn]