Real Man Training Club in China

Boys recite a pledge before group activities.

Boys recite a pledge before group activities.

(Yan Cong / For The Times)

April 26, 2019 6:09 AM PT

Tang Haiyan founded the Real Man Training Club to address what he and others in China see as a masculinity crisis - part of a backlash against androgynous youthful male TV film and pop idols known as “fresh young meat” or “sissies” for their delicate beauty and flawless features.

Masculinity movement in China

Tang Haiyan greets student Zhengzheng, who is joined by his mother.

(Yan Cong / For The Times)

Masculinity movement in China

Boys and fathers participate in the “shirtless run” with group founder Tang Haiyan, in sunglasses.

(Yan Cong / For The Times)

Masculinity movement in China

Parents watch their sons participate in the run.

(Yan Cong / For The Times)

Masculinity movement in China

Boys of varying ages participate in the run.

(Yan Cong / For The Times)

Masculinity movement in China

Zhengzheng, 10, poses with his parents upon finishing the “shirtless run.”

(Yan Cong / For The Times)

Masculinity movement in China

Ginger tea is prepared after the run.

(Yan Cong / For The Times)

Masculinity movement in China

Boys warm themselves with ginger tea.

(Yan Cong / For The Times)

Masculinity movement in China

Tang Haiyan gives a final speech to the boys, each holding a gift in reward for finishing the run.

(Yan Cong / For The Times)

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