Super interesting, Jason - thanks for sharing. It seems like a classic case of a scientist over working his test results though...
"As one scientist researching on the phenomenon suggests, “athletic prowess may be a sexually selected trait that signals genetic quality.”
For me, I think it could be the fact that elite athletes need a lot of help from friends, family, other runners, coaches, etc., it helps to be attractive if you're the one at the center of all attention, no?

about 2 years ago • Like

So you're arguing that maybe attractiveness helps make it possible for athletic ability to manifest itself? Interesting.

Of course, I suspect it's probably a combination. If reproduction is about ensuring genetic survival, then it makes sense that athleticism would be seen as attractive. But as you point out, being attractive can also help create an environment in which athletic success in possible.

So I guess I'm saying maybe the relationship between good looks and athletic ability is reciprocal.

about 2 years ago • Like

Usain Bolt definately has some genetic ability that I still don't believe even he realizes at this point. Call me old fashioned but I still think "...beauty is in the eye of the beholder." Didn't Julia Roberts marry Lyle Lovett? Many times, athletes like actors tend to look better the more money they make, the more races they win (if they don't act like a moron when they win). Runners World had a great article about the South African runner Zola Budd tangling up w/America's Sweetheart, Mary Decker.

about 2 years ago • Like