Despite the societal push for body positivity, gay men can still be absolutely image-obsessed, with an emphasis on the “ab.”Yes, given our fixation on bulging biceps, protuberant pecs, and thunderous thighs, who among us hasn’t felt compelled to gain some gains?Well, a few of us haven’t, it seems.
On Reddit’s r/askgaybros forum, a user recently asked, “Do you feel a pressure to be muscular?” And while most commenters replied in the affirmative, a few said they didn’t—or, at least, they didn’t feel that pressure from others.Related: What is bigorexia and do you suffer from it?The gamut of comments illustrates the physical, mental, and emotional toll of being swole.
Here’s a selection of responses:“Yes, and I’m failing at it.”“I’ve got muscular legs and that’s it. The rest of me is dad bod, though I’ve lost about 30 pounds recently, just eating slightly better.
Took the advice of not eating until I’m full and eating slower.”“Constantly! Especially as a top who sounds gay… Haven’t found a guy yet who just accepts me as I am and that I find attractive as well.”“I used to be lean and lanky, in high school and uni.