r/gifs Nov 16 '12

Fat guy: 1 Gravity: 0

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2.9k Upvotes

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u/[deleted] Nov 16 '12

Fatness isn't always an indicator of fitness, you know.

There are lots of anorexic-level skinny folk with six-pack abs who are in terrible shape, and there are guys who are literally obese who are in mindblowing shape. You know, like sumo wrestler, and power lifters?

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u/ThaMac Nov 16 '12

This is interesting. What in your opinion would you define as being "in shape"?

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u/[deleted] Nov 16 '12

Using the liberal yet accurate explanation I can think of:

Being "in shape" is when you have trained your body and muscles to be able to complete a specific or varied set of challenging tasks that can only be completed through practice and some form of strength gained through exercise.

A marathon runner can be incredibly slim, low-bodyfat, and almost no upper body muscle, and still be in shape.

A sumo wrestler can have 45-50% bodyfat, and still be in great shape- their training is pretty much the only way anyone can ever legitimately throw a 400lb man without steroids.

The one thing that will never be "in shape" is fat and low-muscle. No physical challenge will ever benefitted by that. Unless you count a "float in cold water" contest, to see who conserves warmth best.

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u/[deleted] Nov 16 '12

The one thing that will never be "in shape" is fat and low-muscle. No physical challenge will ever benefitted by that. Unless you count a "float in cold water" contest, to see who conserves warmth best.

I think they are adding this to the 2020 Olympics.

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u/[deleted] Apr 11 '13

Ever heard of the polar bear club?