23 million men in the United States alone claim to have a ‘Dad bod’? Do you?
The trend of men trying to develop abs you could grate cheese off would appear, on the surface at least, to be more popular than ever these days, but if you’ve grown frustrated in your attempts to get a sculpted six-pack, then worry no more.
Why? Because the ‘Dad bod’ is back, that’s why.
While the term suggests that ‘Dad bods’ are the preserve of fathers who have let themselves go a little following the arrival of their children, it is generally accepted that any man can have one.
Indeed, various definitions describe the ‘Dad bod’ as “a male physique that is relatively slim but not lean or toned” or “a male body type that is best described as ‘softly round’”.
On that note, the 23 million or so men around the world who claim to be in possession of a ‘Dad bod’ will be delighted to know that, according to a recent survey by huge US fitness chain Planet Fitness Inc., the ‘Dad bod’ has never been more popular, with a consensus suggesting that “it exudes more sexiness and confidence now than ever before”.
The nationally representative survey of adults in the United States aged 18 or over suggested that:
- The ‘Dad bod’ is more attractive (said 65% of those surveyed in 2019 compared to 57% in 2018)
- Men with a ‘Dad bod’ are sexy (61% v 51%)
- The ‘Dad bod’ is the new six-pack (51% v 41%)
Furthermore, men with a ‘Dad bod’ said that:
- They are happier with their body (79% (2019) v 64% (2018))
- Having that body type has improved their life in some way (72% v 62%)
- Having a ‘Dad bod” has made them more relaxed (46% v 37%)
- Their self-esteem has improved. Men who say their ‘Dad bod’ has improved their life this year claim their body type has helped them accept themselves or made them less concerned with their appearance (47 percent).
- Improved confidence. Nearly four in five respondents among both women and men (78%) believe a ‘Dad bod’ is a sign of a man who is confident in his own skin.
The survey, conducted ahead of Father’s Day last weekend, suggested that there is greater universal acceptance of the ‘Dad bod’ this year than in 2018 (71% v 63%) and that the body type is associated with positive traits amongst men and women.
The ‘Dad bod’ is back. Did it ever go away?
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ with Aideen McQueen – Faith healers, Coolock craic and Gigging as Gaeilge
