The marathoner keeps up his physical strength with daily exercise regimen. [Photo provided to China Daily]

In recent years, Yan has turned his attention from books on social sciences, nonfiction and traditional Chinese culture to philosophy.

As he puts it, he has moved from masterpieces of great philosophers like Plato, Kant and Feng Youlan and learned to live his life more positively.

Cheng Yi, a volunteer of Running in the Dark, a nonprofit running group that provides professional running training for the visually impaired, has guided Yan in four marathon races. He is impressed with Yan's mindset.

"He is very optimistic and rarely thinks negatively," says Cheng.

Yan earns his living as a masseur.

And after seven years of working in Hangzhou and Beijing, he returned to his hometown, Gaomi, and opened his own massage parlor.

He sees himself as having persistence.

"I am keen on improving myself in things that really matter to me," says Yan.

Contact the writer at fangaiqing@chinadaily.com.cn