Body Positivity - Does Size Really Matter?

Human proportions are how we perceive certain parts of our bodies as being proportional or not. By learning about the different ratios and proportions that are considered desirable, individuals can set realistic goals and track their progress as they work towards achieving a healthier and aesthetically pleasing body.

Why, though?

1. Knowing about the waist-to-hip ratio can help individuals understand why it's important to reduce belly fat, as excess fat in this area has been linked to increased risk of health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Similarly, understanding the arm-to-body ratio can help individuals focus on building lean muscle mass in the arms as part of a strength-training routine.

2. Learning about these ratios and proportions can also be helpful for individuals who are struggling with body image issues, as it can provide them with a more objective understanding of what a healthy and attractive body looks like. Rather than striving for an unrealistic or unattainable body shape, individuals can work towards achieving a more balanced and proportionate body that is both healthy and aesthetically pleasing.

3. The idea of beauty is a subjective one, but there are some standards that most people agree on. For example, most people find someone with a symmetrical face to be more attractive than someone who has an asymmetrical face. This can be seen in paintings from thousands of years ago, where artists would draw their subjects with perfect symmetry and proportions.

There are several ratios and proportions that are considered desirable in an aesthetically pleasing human body. Here are some of the most commonly referenced ones:

1. Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) - A WHR of around 0.7 for women and 0.9 for men is often considered attractive. This is because it is associated with good health and fertility in women, and with strength and virility in men.

2. Shoulder-to-Hip Ratio (SHR) - A SHR of around 1.618 (the golden ratio) is often considered attractive in both men and women. This is because it gives the body a balanced and symmetrical look.

3. Waist-to-Height Ratio (WtHR) - A WtHR of around 0.5 is often considered attractive in both men and women. This is because it is associated with good health and a low risk of disease.

4. Leg-to-Body Ratio (LBR) - A LBR of around 0.53 (meaning the legs are 53% of the total body height) is often considered attractive in women. This is because it gives the body a more symmetrical and balanced look.

5. Face-to-Body Ratio (FBR) - A FBR of around 1:8 (meaning the face is approximately one-eighth the height of the body) is often considered attractive in women. This is because it gives the body a more balanced and symmetrical look.

6. Chest-to-Waist Ratio (CWR) - A CWR of around 1.2 is often considered attractive in men. This is because it gives the body a V-shape and is associated with strength and virility.

7. Arm-to-Body Ratio (ABR) - An ABR of around 1:3 (meaning the arm is approximately one-third the length of the body) is often considered attractive in men. This is because it gives the body a more balanced and proportionate look.

8. Bust-to-Waist Ratio (BWR) - A BWR of around 0.7 is often considered attractive in women. This is because it gives the body an hourglass shape and is associated with good health and fertility.

Several studies have shown that people with these ratios are rated as more attractive by others.

• WHR - Singh, 1993; Swami et al., 2006

• SHR - Sorokowski et al., 2014; Dixson et al., 2011

• WtHR - Furnham et al., 2002; Swami et al., 2012

• LBR - Fan et al., 2005; Tassinary & Hansen, 1998

• FBR - Rennels & Bronstad, 2015; Brooks et al., 2010

• CWR - Swami et al., 2008; Frederick et al., 2019

• ABR - Pellegrini et al., 2007; Dixson et al., 2016

• BWR - Fan et al., 2005; Swami et al., 2008

It's worth noting that these ratios are not set in stone, and what is considered attractive can vary depending on culture, personal preferences, and other factors. Additionally, it's important to remember that beauty comes in many forms and that everyone's body is unique and beautiful in its own way.

The Golden Ratio is a mathematical concept that is often applied to the proportions of the human body. It is a ratio of approximately 1.618, and it is found in many natural forms and built architecture. Some researchers have suggested that the golden ratio is a universal standard of beauty and that objects and people who exhibit this ratio are more aesthetically pleasing.

In the context of human body proportions, the golden ratio is often applied to the shoulders, waist, and hips. For example, a shoulder-to-waist ratio of 1.618 is often considered ideal for men, and a waist-to-hip ratio of 0.618 is often considered ideal for women. However, it's worth noting that these ratios are not universally agreed upon, and there is some debate among researchers about the importance of the golden ratio in determining beauty. Additionally, it's important to remember that beauty is subjective and that there is no one "perfect" body shape or proportion.

That brings me to the very sensitive topic of Body Positivity. It is important to recognise that the Body Positivity Movement has played a crucial role in promoting acceptance and appreciation of diverse body types and challenging harmful beauty standards. However, some folks like me, argue that the movement has gone too far and is doing more harm than good to women.

One of the main criticisms of the Body Positivity Movement is that it can actually promote unhealthy lifestyles and weight gain. Some advocates of the movement argue that it is possible to be healthy at any size, which can lead to the dangerous misconception that weight and health are not necessarily linked. This can encourage individuals to ignore the risks associated with obesity (Diabetes, cancer, heart disease) and can lead to the normalisation of unhealthy habits, such as a sedentary lifestyle and a poor diet.

Furthermore, the Movement can also be exclusionary towards certain groups, such as women who are naturally thin or women who have undergone weight loss. These women may feel left out or shamed for their bodies or decision to lose weight, despite the movement's message of inclusivity.

So, while the movement has made important strides in promoting body acceptance and challenging harmful beauty standards, it is important to recognise that it can also have unintended consequences. It is important to strike a balance .

In my opinion, it is important to look your best and feel your best. They are two sides of the same coin. When you are feeling good internally, it will show externally.

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