Large crowds flocked to public swimming pools, basketball and badminton courts, as well as other leisure facilities on Sunday to take advantage of the government’s “Sport for All day”.

Most government-run sports and recreational facilities across the city opened to the public for free, as part of an incentive to encourage people to exercise.

Sports demonstrations were also broadcast online for people to follow and practice.

A man, surnamed Lai, told RTHK that he welcomes the government’s initiative.

“It raises people’s awareness of the benefits of exercise. Of course, it will be even better if the facilities can be free for several more days. This is all for the sake of everyone's health,” he said.

However, a football enthusiast, also surnamed Lai, questioned why soccer pitches weren't available for free.

"You don't need to pay for venues for basketball, swimming, and badminton. Why do we have to pay for the football field?" he asked.

Lai urged the government to provide free admissions to all public sports venues.