A 23-year-old man in China won an unusual contest after he remained on a mattress for more than 33 hours, drawing widespread attention for a challenge based on the country’s lie-flat trend.
The lie-flat trend, popular among Chinese youth, reflects a preference for minimum effort, avoidance of pressure and a calm lifestyle. The contest was organised in line with this idea.
The event took place in a shopping centre in Baotou, where rules were simple but strict. Participants had to remain on a mattress without rising or going to the washroom. They were allowed to turn to their side, read a book, use a mobile phone and lie on their stomachs to eat.
Because standing up meant disqualification, most entrants wore diapers. Of roughly 240 participants, 186 withdrew on the first day.
After 33 hours and 9 minutes, only three contestants remained. To increase the difficulty, organisers instructed them to raise both hands and feet simultaneously. The one who held the position longest was declared the winner, and the 23-year-old eventually triumphed. Prize money was awarded to the winners.
The young man said his girlfriend encouraged him to enter. He said he made no special preparation and felt the urge to quit several times, but her support kept him in the contest until the end.
