Travis Kelce has hit back at people who body-shamed him following his recent vacation with Taylor Swift.
If a man who has just won the Super Bowl and who is dating one of the biggest stars in the world is being body-shamed, then what hope does that leave for the rest of us?
Kelce, fresh off his Super Bowl victory back in February, has been enjoying a getaway with Swift in the Bahamas. However, rather than simply admiring the picturesque scenes and romantic beach frolicking, social media users swiftly labeled the two-time Super Bowl champ as having a "dad bod".
"Dad bod" is slang that loosely refers to a male physique that's not particularly muscular or toned, often accompanied by a bit of extra weight around the midsection.
Despite being an elite athlete, Kelce faced harsh criticism online, with some leaving cutting remarks about his appearance. Even though he maintains a level of fitness far above the average person, his physique clearly isn't enough for some.
In response to the comments, Kelce seemed unfazed during a recent episode of his podcast, New Heights, which he co-hosts with his brother Jason.
Reflecting on his post-season, Kelce admitted to some weight gain, noting: "We’re in the same weight class now! It’s March! We’re in the same weight class right now."
By referencing March, Kelce hinted at taking a break from the rigorous training regimens typical during the NFL season.
Psychologist Carly Dober weighed in on the situation, highlighting the societal double standard that permits more direct commentary on men's bodies compared to women's, per News.com.au.
She emphasized the harmful impact of body shaming on men, noting that it can exacerbate existing body image issues and contribute to conditions like eating disorders and body dysmorphia.
Kelce's experience is not an uncommon one. Actor Taylor Lautner, famed for his role in the Twilight franchise, recently spoke out about his struggles with body image, particularly during his time in the spotlight as a heartthrob known for his sculpted physique.
On his podcast, The Squeeze, Lautner candidly discussed the pressures of maintaining his on-screen physique and the toll it took on his mental well-being.
"When I was in it, when I was 16 through 20 years old, starring in this franchise where my character is known for taking his shirt off every other second, no, I did not know that it was affecting me or going to affect me in the future with body image. But now, looking back at it, of course, it did, and of course, it is going to," he said.
So, let's all just stop commenting about other people's bodies, shall we?
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