Gluteal muscles

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The gluteal muscles, often called glutes, are a group of three

The bulk of the gluteal muscle mass contributes only partially to shape of the buttocks. The other major contributing factor is that of the panniculus adiposus (fatty layer) of the buttocks, which is very well developed in this area, and gives the buttock its characteristic rounded shape. Exercise in general (not only of the gluteal muscles but of the body in general) which can contribute to fat loss can lead to reduction of mass in subcutaneal fat storage locations on the body which includes the panniculus, so for leaner and more active individuals, the glutes will more predominantly contribute to the shape than someone less active with a fattier composition.^{[citation needed]} The degree of body fat stored in various locations such as the panniculus is dictated by genetic and hormonal profiles.^{[citation needed]}

Gluteus maximus

The gluteus maximus arises from the

Well formed gluteal muscles have long been associated with health, strength and sexual attractiveness. In terms of health, they act as a sign of 'being in shape'. This usually means a person is also eating, sleeping and exercising properly, all of which are beneficial to health. In terms of strength, the glutes are among the largest and most powerful muscles in the body. If they are well developed then a person is more likely to be strong. They are also key contributors to movement ranges of fundamental importance, such as bending and straightening the legs, and bending, straightening and twisting at the waist. These movement ranges are key in a person's ability to move in a powerful, dynamic fashion and they are powered to a significant extent by the glutes. If they are well formed then a person is much more likely to be able to move efficiently. In terms of sexual attractiveness, the glute specialist Bret Contreras considers in physio-anthropological terms that this is based upon a sub-conscious assessment of the relationship between a physical capability to survive and prosper, and the ability to raise a family.[2]

'It stands to reason that both males and females were attracted to nice glutes, instinctively making the connection to big, strong glutes and survival, reproduction, hunting and protection.'^[3]

Artistic representation

Prominent gluteal muscles are often used in art in order to imply an ability to move in a powerful, dynamic fashion; virility and fertility; and to meet aesthetic considerations in these regards.

• Artistic representations of the gluteal muscles
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  The Venus Callipyge statue, 1st or 2nd Century B.C.
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  An Ancient Greek athlete using a strigil, which is a device used for cleaning off oil and dirt
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  Ancient Greek sprinters, c. 530 B.C.
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  Pankratiasts fighting on a Roman relief
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  The large glutes and muscular proportions of this heavyweight boxer demonstrate the 20th Century revival of historical training focuses
• 
  Modern sprinters, 2017
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  A pole vaulter, 2019
• 
  The commercialisation of the gluteal muscles as demonstrated by an adult entertainment associate, 2014

See also

• Gluteal crease

Additional images

• 
  Position of gluteus maximus muscle
• 
  Position of gluteus medius muscle
• 
  Position of gluteus minimus muscle

References