When it comes to attraction, most of us have a certain “type” that catches our eye, whether we realize it or not. Recently, a viral illustration made waves on social media, showcasing nine different male body types and asking women, “How do you like your man?” While the image was shared with a humorous twist, it sparked a bigger and more meaningful conversation around body image, personal preferences, and how standards of beauty are changing.
From the lean and athletic type who looks like he just jogged into your heart to the muscle-bound powerhouse who seems like he could lift a small car, and finally to the cozy and huggable dad bod, everyone has something that appeals to them. The beauty of it all is that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to attraction. Some women are naturally drawn to the slimmer, more toned builds like those seen in figures 1 through 3. These men often resemble swimmers or dancers—fit, agile, and not overly bulky. This type gives off a vibe of balance, health, and being in control of their lifestyle without looking like they live at the gym.
Others are more attracted to the heavily muscled type—the gym-goers who show up with visible abs, broad shoulders, and strong arms. These figures, 4 through 6, often suggest dominance, discipline, and confidence. And then, of course, there are figures 7 through 9—the fuller, rounder physiques affectionately known as dad bods. These men might not have the chiseled look of a superhero, but their softer build can feel more relatable, approachable, and even comforting. But here’s the thing—when women talk about what they like in a man’s body, it’s rarely just about the body itself. It’s about the energy that body gives off.
For some, liking a fit guy isn’t necessarily about six-pack abs but rather about appreciating someone who takes care of himself and values health. On the flip side, those who prefer a dad bod may be signaling a desire for someone laid-back, confident, and comfortable in his own skin. It’s less about looks and more about the vibe—the kind of person who isn’t counting calories or checking his reflection every five minutes. While preferences may start with appearance, what keeps someone interested is far deeper.
Personality, charm, humor, and kindness carry much more weight than any number on a scale. Let’s not forget the media’s role in shaping what society considers attractive. For years, pop culture praised the superhero look—ripped, muscular, and always ready to save the day.
That left many men feeling like they had to chase an unattainable image just to be seen as desirable. Thankfully, there’s been a shift. More diverse body types are being shown in movies, on TV, and across social media. We’re beginning to see men of all shapes being portrayed as attractive, confident, and worthy of love. This cultural change reminds us that attractiveness isn’t about fitting into a single mold—it’s about being genuine and embracing who you are. The biggest factor in attraction? Confidence. You could have what the world calls a “perfect” body, but without confidence, it means little. Conversely, someone with an average or even unconventional build who walks with self-assurance and treats others with warmth can be completely magnetic.
Confidence can’t be measured by how toned your abs are or how broad your shoulders look. It’s shown in your posture, your energy, and how you make others feel around you. A guy with a dad bod who owns it and walks tall can turn more heads than a gym rat who’s insecure. What’s truly exciting about the buzz this image generated is that it reflects a growing acceptance of authenticity. We’re finally embracing that love and attraction don’t come with strict physical requirements. Women are openly appreciating men who look like real people—men they can relate to, laugh with, and build something meaningful alongside.
Some might want a gym buddy, others a Netflix-and-chill partner, and many would love a balance of both. The point is, your preference is yours and it’s valid. So if you found yourself drawn to one of those nine figures, great—there’s no wrong answer. Whether you’re into lean and graceful, bold and muscular, or warm and soft, your choice reflects who you are and what you value in a connection. And for all the men out there? Remember, your worth isn’t determined by your waistline. What truly matters is how you treat people, your confidence, and the energy you bring into a relationship. At the end of the day, love doesn’t care about body fat percentage—it cares about heart, respect, and real connection.
