<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">SAN RAMON, Calif. (AP) -- Yao Ming plans to open a fitness center in mainland China. The health club chain 24 Hour Fitness Worldwide announced the partnership with the NBA All-Star on Wednesday. The California Fitness - Yao Ming Sport Club will open in August. California Fitness currently operates 24 centers across Asia. "California Fitness/24 Hour Fitness is the best at what they do -- helping people improve their lives through health and fitness," Yao said. "Especially in the larger cities in China, people's lifestyles are changing and it's having an impact on their health. "In order to achieve my personal goals, I spend a lot of time getting stronger through exercise. I want to lead by example and encourage people to live better by incorporating fitness into their daily lives." As part of the multiyear joint venture, Yao will be an equity partner. He will appear in advertising and make promotional appearances on behalf of the club.</div> Source
