Wang Yibo (right), accompanies a client in Xi'an. He has made running his second career.[Photo/CFP]

Running is a popular fitness activity in China, leading Wang Yibo to create a small side business to help others stick with the sport.

Wang, who lives in Xi'an, the capital of Shaanxi province, used to be a soldier, but since retiring from the military, he has worked in city government. He loves to run and a year ago he posted an online notice saying he would like to accompany others to run for fitness after work.

"I got the idea of accompanied running after I read a newspaper story that said that some urban residents wanted to run for fitness but they could not stay with it because they felt bored running without partners," the 27-year-old said.