Jobs for the boys as more men embrace the rigors of the dance studio

Despite its feminine appeal and flexible routines, pole dancing is no longer the monopoly of women in China, because a growing number of men now regard it as an attractive fitness regimen.

Yan Yulin, a farmer's son from Henan province in Central China, was once a bashful male student at the Luolan school. Now he works as a coach in the school, and although he's strict, some aficionados say he dances more sensually than his female students.

"I've loved dancing since I was young, but I wouldn't have had the chance to fulfill my passion for the art if I'd settled down in a small village like my home," the 28-year-old said.