'Eagle Dad' defends extreme parenting methods (3)

"Many people in Japan give their children cold showers too, and no one is fussing about it," he said.

The traditional way of education applied by most of his peers might not necessarily help bring the best out of a child, he said.

Wang said in addition to the physical training, he has also laid out a detailed and particular program to enhance the intelligence of the child.

"I have hired some university students to expand his knowledge in natural sciences, while playing the video for English-language teaching as well," he said.

According to Mao Zhenming, director of physical education and sports at Beijing Normal University, cold showers and long-distance running, as long as they are not too extreme, are beneficial for a child's development.

However, he warned that the high-intensity workout that requires lots of effort and concentration might be at cross-purposes.

"Parents should take it step by step in a moderate way," he said.

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