A man has launched a part-time career as a self-employed punchbag for stressed women.

Gym coach Xiao Lin from Shenyang in north-east China's Liaoning province has not yet told his family about his second job, the Liaoshen Evening Post reports.

Xiao said: "It fits in well with my day job. I needed more sparring partners anyway.

"By being a punchbag for women, I can make some money and also practice my self-defence skills and work on my fitness at the same time."

He added: "The first woman was about 25 years old. She paid for half an hour but soon got tired and spent the rest of her time just chatting to me.

"The second customer also only lasted for a few minutes but they both looked much happier afterwards. It does people good to let off some steam."

Xiao reportedly charges 100 yuan (￡9) for a 30-minute session.