ByXANTHA LEATHAM, EXECUTIVE SCIENCE EDITOR
Published:05:43 EDT, 23 April 2026|Updated:05:54 EDT, 23 April 2026
It's a stereotype characterised by brawn over brains – but men with masculine body shapes tend to be intelligent, according to a study.
Researchers have found that intelligence in young men is linked to physical traits like grip strength and a higher shoulder–to–hip ratio.
They also discovered that these smart, manly men were less interested in casual sex than their counterparts.
The findings cast doubt on the 'meathead' cliché – that men who are intensely dedicated to bodybuilding and fitness are typically simple–minded.
And it suggests there is an 'overall fitness factor' that combines intelligence, a V–shaped torso and a desire for long, committed relationships.
'Our findings more align with the idea that, at least among men, intelligence is related to physical health and/or good genes but is inversely related to promiscuous sexual behaviour,' lead author Tara DeLecce, from Oakland University, toldPsyPost.
'Some may interpret this as increased difficulty with mating success.
'However, this might also suggest that men of higher intelligence are more likely to succeed in monogamous mating contexts.'
Source: Drudge Report
