The “Dad Bod” has captured public attention as a body type that blends fitness and indulgence, offering a relatable alternative to chiseled abs and extreme gym routines.
Popularized by cultural icons like John Hamm and Chris Pratt pre-Jurassic World, the Dad Bod signifies a relaxed, approachable look.
But recent scientific studies reveal this body type might be more than a social trend—it’s rooted in biology and closely tied to fatherhood.
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Fatherhood and Weight Gain: What Science Reveals
A study published in the American Journal of Men’s Health sheds light on the connection between fatherhood and changes in body weight. Researchers, led by Dr. Craig Garfield at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, analyzed data from over 10,000 men tracked for up to 20 years. They specifically examined how body mass index (BMI)—a measure of weight in relation to height—shifted over time as men became fathers.
The results were telling: men who became fathers gained an average of 4.4 pounds, while those who did not have children lost about 1.4 pounds. These changes occurred regardless of whether the men lived with their children (“resident fathers”) or separately (“non-resident fathers”).
“It’s a unique look at the influence that a social phenomenon, becoming a father, has on a biological marker, namely BMI,” Garfield explained. This connection positions fatherhood as a potential social determinant of men’s health.
Why Fatherhood Encourages a Dad Bod
Fatherhood often brings lifestyle changes that make maintaining a lean physique more challenging. According to Dr. Garfield, several factors contribute to weight gain among dads:
- Dietary Shifts: Homes with children often stock kid-friendly, calorie-dense foods like pizza, brownies, and snacks, which fathers are more likely to consume.
- Reduced Exercise: Parenting demands, including sleepless nights and long days, leave little time for consistent physical activity.
- Stress and Priorities: Balancing work and childcare can deprioritize self-care, including healthy eating and regular workouts.
Dr. Garfield adds a personal perspective: “From my own point of view, we wouldn’t have as many pizzas in the house if the kids weren’t around, and we wouldn’t have the brownies my wife makes if the kids weren’t around.”
Why Women Find the Dad Bod Attractive
The appeal of the Dad Bod goes beyond appearance, rooted in psychological and evolutionary factors. Surveys reveal the widespread acceptance of this body type:
- A 2021 Dating.com survey found that 75% of singles prefer the Dad Bod over a muscular build.
- A 2017 Planet Fitness study showed that 78% of women associate Dad Bods with confidence, and 83% of mothers are proud to have a partner with this physique.
But why does this seemingly average body type resonate so deeply?
Research suggests that men with Dad Bods are often perceived as affectionate, nurturing, and reliable—qualities linked to long-term relationship success. Studies, including those by Wade and colleagues (2019), show that while men with lean, muscular physiques may be rated higher for physical attractiveness, those with higher waist-to-chest ratios—a hallmark of the Dad Bod—receive higher ratings for traits like friendliness, caregiving potential, and emotional warmth.
Evolutionary Fitness and the Dad Bod
From an evolutionary perspective, the Dad Bod may signal traits women find desirable in a long-term partner. High testosterone levels, associated with muscularity, have been linked to increased aggression and a higher likelihood of infidelity, according to studies like those by Hughes and Gallup (2003) and Foo et al. (2019).
Men with lower testosterone levels, which often correlate with a softer physique, are perceived as more nurturing and less likely to engage in risky behaviors. These qualities make them better suited for long-term relationships and parenting.
A Shift in Body Positivity
The Dad Bod reflects a broader cultural shift toward inclusivity and body positivity. While traditional ideals of male beauty emphasized sculpted muscles, the Dad Bod embraces relatability and balance. This shift allows men to feel confident in their natural state and prioritizes their roles as partners and parents over maintaining an unattainable physical ideal.
The Takeaway
The Dad Bod is more than just a trendy look—it symbolizes confidence, approachability, and caregiving potential. For many, this body type strikes a balance between health and enjoyment, making it a meaningful departure from the rigid standards of perfection.
While science confirms that fatherhood can impact a man’s body, it also presents opportunities for healthcare providers to address men’s overall well-being during pivotal life stages. Whether through encouraging healthier eating habits or carving out time for physical activity, embracing the Dad Bod doesn’t mean neglecting health—it’s about finding harmony.