Many men who join a gym have the same goals in mind — either to lose weight and tighten up or to get big and muscular. But what body type do women actually prefer? Is it the lean, fit guy or the ripped, muscular man? A revealing survey by Men’s Fitness Magazine asked 3,000 men and women, and the results may surprise you.
Muscle Mass on the Rise
In 2008, a massive 87% of men said they wanted to add muscle and shape up, compared to just 43% the previous year. Women’s preferences also shifted, with 58% saying they preferred more muscle on a man.
Interestingly, both men and women selected Daniel Craig (as James Bond) as the ideal celebrity physique — strong, defined, but not overly bulky.
“Muscular men are considered more dominant than weedy-looking chaps because being physically imposing implies confidence,” says Dr. Kerri McPherson, Health Psychologist at Glasgow Caledonian University, when asked by Men’s Fitness.
Body Image Is Increasingly Important
Body image consciousness is on the rise. Out of the 3,000 individuals surveyed, 97% agreed that having a good body is important — a 10% increase from 2007. This rise reflects a growing emphasis on aesthetics and health in modern culture.
However, their willingness to alter their bodies differs: 23% of men would consider plastic surgery, while 30% of women were open to going under the knife.
Preferred Body Types: Muscular Wins
Sometimes it’s comforting to know you’re appreciated just the way you are. When asked about favorite body types:
- Men on women: 42% liked curvy, 37% athletic, 14% slender, 7% busty.
- Women on men: 58% preferred muscular, 21% slim, 11% chunky, 10% cuddly.
The numbers are clear — muscular builds remain the most desired by women, while men favor curves and athleticism.
This survey supports what many have already experienced — the gym is no longer just for bodybuilders and athletes. It’s for anyone chasing their ideal physique and health goals. Whether you’re focused on strength, aesthetics, or weight management, consistent training matters. Start here with our training performance tips.
Final Thoughts: Confidence Comes First
Ultimately, confidence, consistency, and health matter more than size alone. Whether you aim to bulk, cut, or simply feel better, the key is showing up and putting in the work.
Want to learn more about optimizing your training for lean muscle or fat loss? Explore our resources on weight loss and metabolism.