Are six-packs really part of sex appeal?
By: Natasha Archary
Chiseled torsos, ripped pecs and that “V” that some men have, has for a long time been linked to a man’s sex appeal.
Do six-packs hold the same attraction for women as shapely posteriors have held for men since the beginning of time?
Sculpted abs are often said to be a reflection of overall health but this is debatable amongst health experts.
Experts weigh in
Male health experts calculate that a man has to get down to about 10% of body fat in order for his abs to start peeking out.
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) released a guideline on essential fat and suggests that men should retain between 2 to 5% of fat. This is tough on the body.
Dropping below the 10% body fat ratio can put undue strain on your body.
Six-packs don’t necessarily mean you’re a lean, mean, fit machine.
A rigorous training programme aside, abs are made in the kitchen and pursuing a six-pack requires cutting out almost all foods. It means hours spent on workouts and meal preps.
Vanity metric
Remember the time when lean legs and a slender waist were considered appealing to men?
Thank goodness women embraced their curves because it freed the thick thighs, big busts and curvy rear for every women who did not fit into the size zero mould.
Equally abs are losing sex appeal with women.
It’s great to look at and run your hands over but what else?
Many confuse a six-pack with sex appeal. Granted appearances drive most of our decisions, especially around attraction. We associate happiness with how our bodies look.
Measuring physical attraction according to this vanity metric.
Would you still be interested in a man if he were ripped for days but had the personality of a doorknob?
In a survey of heterosexual women, from different age groups, only 2% of the 2000 odd respondents cited visible abs as a must-have with men they would consider dating.
27% said they didn’t care and rated a personality and a smile that was “to die for” as the top traits in a potential partner.
Sex appeal
Is a man’s sex appeal centred around his core?
Not according to most women surveyed.
Women prefer a man who can hold a conversation and one who has a sense of humour.
Finding intellectual stimulation or a connection to be more of a turn-on than abs. While a six-pack could get you noticed, most women prefer a man who doesn’t look like his abs have been airbrushed.
However sex appeal, like attraction is subjective.
The important thing is whether a six-pack defines you, as a man of the millennium.
Does it build your confidence, make you feel better about your self-image, give you a sense of pride? Because if it does, then go for it.
Just know, it’s not going to be enough to keep your partner’s interest in the bedroom.
MORE ARTICLES
Denise Zimba shares heartbreaking message to her kids for Easter
Boity pays tribute to late grandmother one year after her passing
Vatican releases images of Pope Francis in open coffin
‘I prayed for a man that reflects my heart’ – Beverly Tlhako on her 1st wedding anniversary
Guideline: How to apply for R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund
QUICK LINKS
UpComing Shows
Kaya Biz
With Gugulethu Mfuphi
The world of business is simplified for you by Kaya Biz with Gugulethu Mfuphi. This fast-paced award-winning business show talks to the corporate giants as well as up and coming entrepreneurs about their wins and challenges. Gugulethu invites guests to offer their analyses of markets and economies, and also delves into issues of personal financial wellness. Kaya Biz airs Mondays to Thursdays 18h00 to 19h00.
close
Point of View
With Phemelo Motene
Point of View with Phemelo Motene delves into the day’s current affairs, touches on real issues that affect people’s daily lives and shares expert advice on questions posed by the audience. Mondays to Thursdays 20:00 to 22:00.
close
The Best T in the City
With T Bose
He has held it down in the world of mid-morning radio with the best music, riveting topics, brilliant mixes and interesting guests. Every weekday, The Best T proves why he is the BEST by connecting to you like only your bro or favourite uncle could. He lets his listeners dictate the songs they want to hear in the ever-popular Top 10 at 10, and his Three Teaspoons never run out. Catch The Best T in the City Mondays to Fridays from 09h00 to 12h00.
close
Feel Good
With Andy Maqondwana
Feel good about feeling good! That's exactly what The Feel-Good show is about. An escape from the negativity that surrounds us, indulging you in good feels. Pass it on to one and all. Spread the good feeling around Gauteng with Andy Maqondwana.
closeConnect with Kaya 959
DownLoad Our Mobile App
