A recent investigation featured in Evolution and Human Behavior indicates that physical strength could significantly influence an individual's romantic experiences. Research carried out by Washington State University discovered that individuals, regardless of gender, who possess greater upper body strength are likely to have a higher number of sexual partners throughout their lives.

Is upper body strength linked to mating success?

The study revealed a noteworthy finding: men possessing greater upper body strength tend to be more inclined to engage in long-term relationships. This observation aligns with the 'provisioning' theory, which posits that men with enhanced physical strength are perceived as more attractive partners due to their capacity to supply resources, including food, via hunting.

More about the study

The researchers conducted an analysis of data from more than 4,300 adults in the United States, aged between 18 and 60 years, utilizing grip strength as an indicator of upper body strength. Their findings indicated that individuals with greater strength, irrespective of gender, reported a higher number of lifetime sexual partners. Nevertheless, the underlying reasons for this correlation remain ambiguous, especially concerning women.

"We were exploring the connection between physical strength differences between sexes and variations in depression levels, and we recognized that our dataset could also shed light on the long-standing hypothesis that these strength differences evolved through sexual selection: men with superior physical strength were more capable of competing with other men for access to mates, resulting in a greater number of sexual partners," stated Edward H. Hagen, the senior author and a professor of anthropology at Washington State University.

Here are some possible explanations

Several potential explanations for the correlation between physical strength and success in romantic relationships are as follows:

⦿ Assortative mating: Individuals with greater physical strength may be more inclined to form partnerships with others who possess similar attributes.

⦿ Decreased dependency: Women exhibiting higher levels of physical strength may necessitate less investment from male partners, thereby feeling more empowered to engage in risk-taking behaviours.

⦿ Evolutionary benefits: Historically, physical strength may have conferred advantages in the context of mating and reproduction.

Although the study offers significant insights, it is important to recognize that the results reflect correlations rather than causative relationships. Additional research is required to comprehensively explore the dynamics between physical strength and romantic success.

Read Also: Feeling Lonely? Try This Simple Mind Trick to Shift to Happiness

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