* 68% of women say they prefer a dad-bod over a gym-honed physique.
* Bodybuilders are out, balance is in – just 6% of women found overly muscular men appealing, favouring a more relaxed, relatable look.
* Nearly three-quarters of women say men with dad-bods feel more approachable and less intimidating.
* Study conducted by IllicitEncounters.com, the UK’s largest extramarital dating site.
In a revelation that might have gym fanatics rethinking their routines, a recent poll conducted by IllicitEncounters.com, the UK’s leading dating website for married people, has found that the ‘softer’, more relatable physique is overwhelmingly preferred by women over sculpted abs.
The survey of 2,000 female members delivered a clear verdict: a significant 68% of women stated they find a ‘dad-bod’ the most attractive physique. 22% prefer an athletic build, and just 6% said they’re attracted to bulked-up bodybuilder frames. On the opposite end of the spectrum, only 4% said they’re attracted to overweight physiques.
When asked why the dad-bod was so appealing, the top response – at 73% – was that women felt these men were more approachable and less intimidating. Many ladies (58%) also felt that men with this physique seemed to prioritise fun and enjoyment over rigid routines, suggesting a more balanced lifestyle.
Confidence was another key factor – 52% said a man with a dad-bod seemed more self-assured in his own skin. Women also described the look as more real and less high-maintenance (45%), and 25% insisted dad-bods simply make better cuddlers.
Jessica Leoni, sex and relationships expert at IllicitEncounters.com, commented on the surprising findings: “This poll confirms what many of us have long suspected – the dad-bod is no longer just accepted, it’s adored.
It reflects a shift in what women want: someone comfortable in his skin, who’s fun to be around and doesn’t take himself too seriously. Let’s face it – a partner who prioritises pleasure over protein shakes can be incredibly appealing.”
Results
Preferred Male Physique:
Dad-bod – 68%
Athletic build – 22%
Bodybuilder physique – 6%
Overweight – 4%
Top Reasons for Dad-Bod Preference:
More approachable and less intimidating – 73%
Looks like they prioritise fun/enjoyment over strict routine – 58%
Suggests more confidence – 52%
More ‘real’ and less high-maintenance – 45%
Better cuddlers – 25%
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