Muammar Gaddafi is long gone, but there are still takers for hot female bodyguards.

A firm in China is readying a new batch of women bodyguards to service its clients. The candidates have to undergo rigorous training for 8-10 months before they assume their responsibilities. They are expected to guard wealthy, high-class women seeking protection.

Nearly 20 young women participated in the training session organised by Tianjiao Special Guard/Security Consultant Ltd, based in Sanya in the country's Hainan province. The session, in fact, marked the first open group training for female bodyguards in China.

The women took part in the session in swimming suits to take their first lessons. According to the company, the best trainee will be offered the opportunity to undergo further training at the International Security Academy in Israel.

Female Bodyguard Trained
A trainee dressed in swimming suit steps on stomachs of other trainees with the help of a trainer during training session in Sanya. Reuters
Female Bodyguard Trained
Trainees dressed in swimming suits carry a log on their shoulders during a training session for female bodyguards in Sanya Reuters
Female Bodyguard Trained
Trainees dressed in swimming suits follow the instructions of a trainer from Tianjiao Special Security Consultant Ltd. Co. during a training session in Sanya, Hainan province. Reuters
Female Bodyguard Training
No Beauty Pageant Line Up: Female Bodyguard Trainees gather at a beach as they wait for beginning of training session for female bodyguards in Sanya. Reuters
Female Bodyguard Trained
Trainees dressed in swimming suits follow instructions of a trainer during a training session in Sanya. Reuters
China Israel