In this episode of Iron Culture, Dr. Eric Trexler and Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple discuss science related to attractiveness, coolness, and personality type. They explore scientific studies on the factors associated with perceived attractiveness and "coolness," discussing body fat percentages and societal perceptions. The conversation shifts to how personality traits appear to predict workout preferences and engagement in fitness, then they debate the importance of matching exercise to individual characteristics.

Time stamps: 00:00 Introduction to Iron Culture and Guests 5:57 The Science of (Male) Attractiveness 10:39 Evolutionary Underpinnings of Male Attractiveness 13:53 Distorted Perceptions of Attractiveness (In the Fitness World) 20:10 The Irony of Pursuing Attractiveness 22:22 Body-Fat and Optimized Health 24:18 Surprising Article Feedback 28:50 Unrealistic Body Standards and Gender Perceptions 32:49 Achieving the Outcome Versus Doing Hard Things 35:07 Attractiveness is More Than Body Shape/Size 37:48 The Science of Being Cool 47:19 Matching Exercise To Personality Types

References:

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Brierley ME, Brooks KR, Mond J, Stevenson RJ, Stephen ID. The Body and the Beautiful: Health, Attractiveness and Body Composition in Men’s and Women’s Bodies. PLoS One. 2016;11(6):e0156722.

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https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Fxge0001799

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1587472/full