Is China's approach to the Olympics too strict?

Are Chinese officials pushing athletes too far?

With just one month to go before the start of the Beijing Olympic Games, China says it is ready.

The country has spent a reported $40bn preparing for the world's biggest sporting event.

But some are worried that athletes are being overworked and that human rights are being suppressed as a result of China's desire to show itself off as a vibrant, modern country.

As Michael Bristow reports from Beijing, nothing is being left to chance.

Listen Listen to Michael Bristow (3 mins 52 secs)

First broadcast 8 July 2008