In the pursuit of a perfect backside, scientists have uncovered a surprising formula that has nothing to do with size. The key to an aesthetically appealing bottom lies in the golden waist-to-hip ratio. This ratio measures the waist at its narrowest point and the hips at their widest point, indicating the curvature of the rear.
Ideal buttock characteristics for men
A new study, published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, examined the preferences for male buttocks. In the study, 2,095 participants aged 25 to 34 were presented with five images of male backsides to determine their preferences.
The findings revealed that the most favoured backside displayed a gluteal trochanteric index (GTI) of 0.66. This suggests that respondents preferred a moderately sized and well-proportioned backside with visible muscle definition. Coming in at a close second was a GTI of 0.64, similar to the aesthetic qualities associated with Hollywood star Channing Tatum. Other ratios that received positive responses were 0.68, 0.62, and 0.58.
Furthermore, the respondents indicated a preference for a lateral thigh to buttock ratio of 1.18 and an oblique projection angle of 60 degrees. Lead author Dr Ashit Patel concluded that a moderately enhanced and well-proportioned appearance, with a projected contour and a narrow width, was considered most desirable. The ideal male buttocks should not be flat or overly prominent and should retain the characteristic dimple on the sides.
Ideal buttock characteristics for women
In an earlier 2016 study, also published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, researchers at Loma Linda University in California sought to determine the “optimal’ female backside.
To understand the characteristics that define a first-class backside, the researchers created eight digital images and surveyed 1,146 men and women to assess their preferences.
The top-rated female buttocks had a waist-to-hip ratio of 0.65. This indicates a narrow waist and gently flaring hips, similar to the renowned figure of singer and actress Jennifer Lopez.
Following closely behind was a ratio of 0.60, comparable to the aesthetic qualities associated with singer Kylie Minogue. Other ratios that received positive ratings were 0.675, 0.75, 0.7, 0.5, and 0.8.
Conversely, a slightly unnatural-looking ratio of 0.55 was deemed less attractive, suggesting a shift away from aspiring to the extreme hourglass figures of icons such as Kim Kardashian (0.50) and Nicki Minaj (0.55).
Notably, there were no significant differences in preferences among different age groups, genders, or ethnic groups. However, the study indicated a paradigm shift in backside ideals, introducing new waist-to-hip ratios of 0.6 and 0.65, which emphasise a more dramatic and curvier aesthetic.
