Marathon running has enjoyed a huge surge of popularity in China in recent years as the country's growing numbers of white-collar workers develop an increasing interest in health and fitness, and 30,000 people took part in this year's Xiamen Marathon.

Runners take a selfie before the start of the 2017 Xiamen International Marathon in Xiamen, Fujian province on Jan 2. [Photo by Wei Peiquan/Xinhua]

A runner smiles at a camera while taking on the 2017 Xiamen International Marathon in Xiamen, Fujian province on Jan 2. [Photo by Wei Peiquan/Xinhua]

After the leading pack, who were chasing a place on the podium, the majority set off at a more leisurely pace and were happy to share the experience with their fellow runners and enjoy the iconic course along the stunning coastline of Xiamen Island with its picturesque scenery, cultural sites and modern architecture.