Researchers at the University of Westminster have uncovered significant relationships between the shape of the gluteus maximus muscle and metabolic health. This groundbreaking study highlights how factors such as age, gender, lifestyle, and frailty influence muscle shape, potentially indicating underlying metabolic differences.
The findings, which were presented in December 2023 at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America in Chicago, are based on an extensive analysis of over 61,000 MRI scans sourced from a large health database in the UK. According to the lead author, E. Louise Thomas, Ph.D., a professor of metabolic imaging at the university’s School of Life Sciences, the shape of the gluteus maximus is a more telling indicator of metabolic health than size alone.
The study’s results suggest that individuals with higher fitness levels, as measured by vigorous physical activity and hand grip strength, tend to have a more pronounced gluteus maximus shape. Conversely, age, frailty, and prolonged periods of sitting were linked to a thinning of the muscle. Co-author Marjola Thanaj, Ph.D., emphasized the importance of these findings, stating that changes in muscle shape may signal an “early functional decline” and “metabolic compromise” in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Research indicated that men with type 2 diabetes exhibited muscle shrinkage, while women showed enlarged muscles, potentially due to fat infiltration. The study also found that frail men experienced general muscle shrinkage, whereas the effects on women were more limited.
Implications for Health and Fitness
The implications of this research extend beyond academic interest. Strengthening glute muscles has been described as an essential investment in long-term health. Tanya Becker, co-founder of Physique 57 in New York City, advocates for focusing on the glutes, which she refers to as “the body’s shock absorbers.” Becker notes that larger muscle groups, such as the glutes, burn more calories and help regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to overall metabolic health.
Becker recommends a variety of exercises to enhance glute strength, including traditional weighted movements like squats, lunges, and bridges. She emphasizes that these exercises not only strengthen the glutes but also protect the lower back, hips, and knees. Additionally, they improve posture and balance, reducing the risk of falls and enhancing mobility.
For those who may not be able to perform weighted exercises, Becker suggests that Pilates and barre classes provide excellent alternatives. These bodyweight exercises can accommodate beginners and individuals with physical limitations, making them accessible to a wider audience.
The study’s findings serve as a reminder of the connection between muscle health and overall well-being. As researchers continue to explore these relationships, fitness professionals and health advocates can utilize this knowledge to promote healthier lifestyles.
In conclusion, the shape of the gluteus maximus muscle offers valuable insights into metabolic health, underscoring the importance of maintaining muscle strength as part of a holistic approach to health. As this research continues to develop, it may pave the way for new strategies in fitness and health management, particularly for those at risk of metabolic disorders.
