An interesting study result has emerged indicating that looking at your butt can provide important clues about your overall health.
A research team from the University of Westminster in the UK presented findings at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America held in December last year, showing that the three-dimensional shape of gluteal muscles is closely related to age, lifestyle, gender, and diseases such as type 2 diabetes. In particular, the researchers analyzed that changes in the shape of the gluteus maximus could be an early signal of metabolic health and functional decline.
The research team conducted a comprehensive analysis of over 61,000 MRI scans collected from the UK Biobank, along with participants' demographic information, body measurement data, disease indicators, and lifestyle data. Unlike previous studies that primarily focused on muscle size or fat content, this study precisely mapped the 3D shape of the muscles to accurately identify where structural changes occur.
Professor E. Lewis Thomas, who led the study, explained, "The gluteus maximus is one of the largest muscles in the human body and plays a crucial role in metabolic health."
The analysis revealed that individuals with good physical fitness, assessed through vigorous physical activity and grip strength, tended to have more pronounced 3D shapes of the gluteus maximus. This indicates not just a larger muscle volume but also a more developed and healthier structural form. Conversely, structural changes were observed in individuals with aging, frailty, and sedentary lifestyles, where the gluteus maximus appeared thinner.
In particular, in cases of type 2 diabetes, the patterns of gluteal changes varied significantly by gender. In men, overall muscle atrophy was observed, while in women, the muscles appeared relatively larger. The researchers explained that this is likely due to fat infiltrating the muscle.
The research team assessed that "even with the same disease, men and women can exhibit very different biological responses." In changes associated with frailty, men showed significant atrophy of the gluteus maximus, while women exhibited relatively limited changes.
The researchers indicated that these shape changes in the gluteus maximus could reflect metabolic abnormalities and functional decline in the early stages of diabetes. In other words, changes in the structural shape of the gluteus maximus could potentially serve as a structural indicator for early detection of metabolic health deterioration.
Exercise experts emphasize that "strengthening the gluteus maximus offers benefits beyond aesthetic improvement, including blood sugar control, postural stability, and fall prevention, contributing to overall health." Strengthening the gluteus maximus not only improves walking and balance but also plays a key role in absorbing shocks to the back, hips, and knees.
Experts recommend strengthening the gluteus maximus through resistance exercises such as squats, lunges, and bridges. If these exercises are difficult due to joint pain or injuries, Pilates or low-intensity bodyweight exercises can also be realistic alternatives.
