Abstract:
Sociologists and anthropologists will argue that now, more so than any other period in history, muscles have become an important part of masculine identity in Western culture. However, in the quest to attain this muscular physique, the majority of men must work their bodies in a physical manner. Therefore, muscles have become synonymous with sport and exercise. Unfortunately there are many men who abhor physical activity, often as a consequence of bad childhood experiences with sport, or there are those men who simply do not have the time to exercise due to their work commitments. For men such as these, life can involve a constant battle with their own conscience as they struggle with their decision not to exercise; however, they must face the consequence of negative social regard and criticism.
The benefit of muscularity is instilled into boys at an early age. Boys suffer if they can't or won't accept the obligation to develop a "manly" physique. Muscular, athletic boys are generally well accepted by peers and have a positive self-concept. In general, athletic physiques in males are revered and applauded by Western society.
My doctoral research examines the lives of 12 elite-level sportsmen, from the sports of bodybuilding, surf lifesaving and triathlon. It aims to discover the emphasis these men place on the size, shape and muscularity of male physiques as well as the way they perceive masculinity, including their own Therefore this paper will investigate the importance of muscles in the development of masculinity throughout the lifecourse of men, utilising the data collected thus far.
The benefit of muscularity is instilled into boys at an early age. Boys suffer if they can't or won't accept the obligation to develop a "manly" physique. Muscular, athletic boys are generally well accepted by peers and have a positive self-concept. In general, athletic physiques in males are revered and applauded by Western society.
My doctoral research examines the lives of 12 elite-level sportsmen, from the sports of bodybuilding, surf lifesaving and triathlon. It aims to discover the emphasis these men place on the size, shape and muscularity of male physiques as well as the way they perceive masculinity, including their own Therefore this paper will investigate the importance of muscles in the development of masculinity throughout the lifecourse of men, utilising the data collected thus far.