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Embracing the Trend of Big Butts
I can hardly believe I have to state the obvious, but big butts are in. And I mean really in. You’ve probably noticed it all over social media, with some women even building careers based on their ample derrieres. This trend is not limited to the online world; it’s also taking over the fitness industry.
J-Lo has always been bootylicious, but the Kardashian and Jenner clan have taken it to a whole new level. Fitness models like Brittany Perille have also contributed to the rise of “Fitspo.” It’s now common to hear conversations like, “Do these leggings make my butt look big?” to which the reply is often a resounding “Obviously!”
It’s a cultural phenomenon. Having a curvaceous backside is now seen as fashionable and desirable. Many people aspire to have a larger butt, and some of us are here to help both men and women achieve that goal through diet and exercise. The appeal lies in the fact that it’s something you can develop and strengthen with hard work and dedication.
Let’s dig deeper into the three types of big booties out there.
Purchased, Earned, or Inherited Glutes
In recent years, there has been a rise in procedures like fat injections, implants, and high-calorie diets to achieve the coveted “Kardashian” look – a tiny waist and sizable cheeks. These are what we refer to as “bought” butts. If you have enough money and are willing to take the risks associated with surgery, you can fill out those jeans and embrace the look.
On the other hand, some individuals work tirelessly for years to develop strong, athletic glutes that boost their confidence and performance both on and off the field. We call these “earned glutes” because they are the result of hard-earned dedication and commitment.
Lastly, there are those who fall into the category of “inherited” glutes. If you have naturally larger glutes, particularly since puberty or later, and have family members with a similar body type, it’s likely due to genetics.
BP is one of those genetic outliers who works exceptionally hard in the gym, and it definitely shows!
Understanding the Genetic Factors
When it comes to the size of your glutes, four key factors play a role:
- Bone structure: Specifically, the pelvic area, which also affects the appearance of hip dips.
- Gluteal muscle insertion points: These dictate how the glutes connect and attach to your bones.
- Gluteal muscle size: The physical size of your glute muscles.
- Natural fat distribution: How your body tends to store fat in the glutes, thighs, and hips.
As you can see, a significant portion of your butt size is determined by your genes (thanks, mom). Three out of four of these factors are entirely genetic.
While diet and exercise can certainly make a difference in your appearance and performance, certain aspects are beyond your control.
A study by Dr. Konstantin Manolopoulos from Oxford University, which involved 16,000 women, found that those who naturally store fat in their buttocks tend to be healthier.
Why? Well, if your body naturally stores fat around the tummy area, that type of fat is more prone to storing and releasing energy, even after prolonged periods of starvation or exercise.
On the other hand, fat stored in the glutes and legs tends to remain in those areas and is less likely to affect your organs negatively. In fact, having a higher amount of fat stored in the glutes and thighs can lead to the release of healthy hormones like adiponectin and leptin, which have impressive fat-burning benefits.
You might find this counterintuitive at first. After all, isn’t it holding on to fat? But these genetically blessed women’s bodies are exceptionally efficient at gaining fat in the glutes and thighs while simultaneously shedding it in other areas.
The Allure of an Hourglass Figure
One of the easiest ways to recognize the benefits of having genetically bestowed glutes is to look at the hip-to-waist ratio. Individuals with fuller hips and a smaller waist typically have larger glutes. This ratio is even noticeable in people who don’t exercise regularly, regardless of their weight.
If you fall into this category, congratulations! According to scientific research, you may enjoy better health compared to those with the opposite body shape.
If you don’t naturally have this figure, don’t worry! It simply means you may need to work a little harder to achieve your goals. Remember to always appreciate your genetics and your body. You are incredible, beautiful, and deserving of love and admiration.
Regardless of our genetic makeup, we all have our own goals to work towards. So, let’s hit the gym and make it happen!
Sources
- Manolopoulos, Marcos, et al. “Gluteofemoral body fat as a determinant of metabolic health,” International Journal of Obesity, 2010, Jun;34(6): 949-59.
