Basic PLA knowledge: Due to the PLA's light infantry tradition, they are extremely obsessed with the long-distance marching ability of their soldiers.
A 5km armed cross-country run is the foundational skill. We're talking about cross-country running with a load of 13-22 kg, passing the test within 24-27 minutes, and this is done 1-2 times a week. Next up are 10km, 25km full gear (30kg+) march once a week, and 50km version once a month. Some high-intensity training even involves marching 50 kilometers every day for a few days or even a week
With this kind of physical training, soldiers' physiques naturally lean towards those of long-distance runners.
