Viral video shows women as 'living mannequins' in China mall, sparking internet shock | On trend

A viral video showing models running on treadmills outside clothing stores at a mall in China has shocked many on social media. The video, which has been viewed over 5 million times, shows a dressed-up model walking the ramp in front of designer clothing store ITIB. The women swap mannequins around the store as they showcase the latest fashions on their treadmill ramp walk.

The video shows the women walking with the professionalism of runway models while many people stop and look at them in awe. Some even record videos to capture the unique spectacle.

“A Chinese retail chain has replaced traditional mannequins with real women walking on treadmills and wearing their clothes. They believe this helps customers see how a person’s clothes fit and move on them,” the caption reads.

Check out the video here:

This comes months after similar images were seen in Dubai, where a clothing brand had a model standing next to mannequins outside its store at Dubai Festival City Mall. The model stood on a platform outside the store and switched poses as shoppers stopped to take a look.

The video drew sharp criticism as many equated the job with modern slavery. “This is inhumane. “I’m sure her feet hurt like crazy and why do we even need that when we have regular pacifiers?” wrote one user.

(Also Read: Woman Exhibited In Dubai Mall As Living Mannequin Raises Eyebrows: 'Modern World Slavery')

How the internet reacted

The video from China drew similar reactions, but most users were amused by the job and claimed the job was like getting paid to train.

“Not a bad hustle if you're looking for a little extra money… and it'll keep you fit too! Get paid to walk and show off the latest styles,” one user wrote.

“This is crazy. I suppose it secures their jobs and helps them get ready for the day. What happens when they have to go to the toilet? “Hopefully they get a break,” said one concerned user, while another worried about his safety on the treadmill. “What happens if they stumble? No guardrail or nothing if they fall from an elevated platform. Oh, you know, I’m getting old watching this and just thinking about safety.”