Since I started this blog in 2009, I’ve always embedded pictures of glutes into my blog. Athletic glutes, sexy glutes, round glutes, perky glutes, celebrity glutes, sprinter glutes, bikini and figure competitor glutes, glutes in spandex, glutes in bikinis, glutes on land, glutes in water, and glutes soaring through the air.
Pole Vaulter Erika Prezerakou Soaring Through the Air
As you can tell, I love nice butts and I love looking at them. I’m not ashamed to admit that either. And since I’m The Glute Guy and I regular write blogposts on glute training, I’ve purposely depicted great glute development in my blogposts over the past four years. To me, pictures of nice glutes are just a form of art which go hand in hand with the text I write. I feel that by consistently showing people what good glute development looks like along with good before/after pictures, the bar will be raised and people will keep striving for improvements. That said, I realize that not everyone feels the same way that I feel about this topic.
It’s Just Art to Me!
As my blog has risen in popularity, I’ve begun to take more and more criticism, mostly from women, for the pictures I embed in my blog. Not everyone shares my affinity for glutes, nor is everyone comfortable examining scantily clad individuals, often depicted in sexual positions. However, I’ve received mixed feedback over time. While most men love the pictures for obvious reasons, there appears to be an equal divide among women. Some women enjoy the pictures and find them to be motivating and inspirational, whereas others deplore them and find them to be offensive and distasteful. I realize that I don’t fully understand my readers and should try to learn more about their opinions on this topic.
I therefore decided to poll my readers to see how you all feel about my picture-posting-practices. If there’s an overwhelmingly negative response then I will curtail my behavior. However, if enough people are like me and appreciate the photographs, then I will keep on keepin’ on.
I’m not too stubborn to change my ways based on feedback, but I’ll be honest it would be a difficult practice to break. Not only have I been doing it this way for four straight years, but I also have trouble fathoming how I can optimize a blog focused on glutes without posting pictures showing off nice glutes. Nevertheless, I would hate to find out that I’m putting off a great deal of my readers, so now’s your time to speak up and vote.
Please fill out the four questions below and feel free to leave a comment as well. I will post the results of the poll next week. Thank you for your time!
[wpsqt name=”Glute Pictures” type=”poll”]
It’s only people and society that make body parts sexual. It’s comparable to people being so offended by breast feeding.
Keep posting great glutes. We all got them. It’s not like your posting porn stars bent over in lingerie.
I see glutes as powerful, strong muscles that contribute to longevity and performance and they happen to be nice to look at 😉
Totally agree Linzzz…. keep ’em coming!! Post up some more men too!!
I was just thinking the same thing, Connie. It shouldn’t be just about the female glutes. Men should have some nice junk in the trunk too 🙂
haha… good idea! 😉
I’m using Bret’s suggestions for a year now and was able to double my butt size…
Keep posting pics. Period. What do people expect to see on The Glute Guy’s blog? They can stop looking if they don’t like it…
One of my clients told me about this poll, it’s ridiculous that people take offensive to looking at glutes when they come to a website/blog dedicated to glute development.
Fact.
What Michael Said!
Improving my glute strength helps stabilize a bad SI joint. Keep the inspiring photos of both men and women coming!
As someone who regularly does weight training, and more specifically glute training, I find the pictures to be both motivational and inspirational. I don’t think your blog would be as effective without these pictures.
You said it – I totally agree with you post.
I wish there was a sometimes option for the questions! In an ideal world, I would like to see one reader submitted photo for every stock photo you post. I just like seeing real world examples of people that have worked hard for their glutes as opposed to model sexy strong pictures gotten from a fitspo website.
I agree. As a mom of infant twins and a toddler I don’t have the option to work as hard as I’d like on my physical fitness, and won’t for some time yet. I like the pro pics, but I’d also like to see varying degrees of real world successes from people who don’t get paid to rock their glutes and who have body types closer to my own.
But the current pics don’t bother me.
I agree also. I have been following you Bret for years (from Marianne’s website) and appreciate your knowledge of biomechanics, anatomy…etc and your intelligent approach to training, as I am an OT. I have used a lot of your tech in my training also. I am a normal woman who works out, relatively hard, 3-4 times a week and I am in fairly good shape for my age, but I am a little tired of some of the “fitspo” pics on the web . With your site, I have to admit, I sometimes hide your pics from my family as they are a little “soft porn”. I don’t mind pics of butts, but some are too sexual for me – however I am a Mom and sensitive to what my family sees. BUT – it is YOUR site! You do what you want! I am not sure what your target audience is, so it is up to you what you post! Again, I reference your blog a lot, but if the pics are too much, I avoid it and sometimes don’t get back to it! I have even been a little worried when I reference your site, depending on who the person is – not because of your verbal content, but the pics. Maybe if you had the more explicit pics towards the end of the articles, and more “clothed” pics throughout the rest, it may be easier for people to avoid what they would rather not see, and yet still enjoy your blog. You can keep your pics up, but in a place that not everyone who reads it will have to look at it. That’s just my opinion and hope it can be of some help! THanks for all your info!
Michele
I actually love this idea. It is one thing to view a model’s photos but another thing entirely to see an ordinary woman’s hard won development.
I hope that I make a good real world example. 🙂
I run a full time business, am a full time grad student, and have two busy kiddos. I know EXACTLY how it feels to not have all the time in the world to work on my body.
I think you ladies are awesome for finding time to take care of yourselves. It carries over into everyday life.
xoxo
You are definitely a “real world” example…and one I follow daily with Strong Curves! I appreciate all your hard work and dedication to helping others while carrying out your daily goals for yourself and your family.
So you don’t think that fitness model worked just has hard for her physique as the “ordinary woman”? I hate to tell you, but it’s hard won development for everyone, there is no magic pill for models. Unless they’re using Photoshop, that is. 😛
I agree that if you want to avoid criticism then you need to show ordinary and/or even overweight people. That is more realistic and far more motivating. If pics are just attractive women who are already professional models and athletes then you are likely to put more women off than not. Also include male pics as that would show you care more about the Glutes and less about staring at the women.
Good point Ryan
how is showing pics of overweight people motivating? I think many of those of us females who are offended by good looking glutes should ask ourselves why we are?
Bret, I’m a 52 year old mother with 2 artificial hips, scoliosis and lumbar stenosis. My 27 year old son introduced me to your site hoping that working my Glutes would help with my low back pain. It has helped me in just 8 weeks. And as a home health nurse I am now encouraging my patients to strengthen their Glutes too! I don’t mind the photos but I can see where many people might.
Thanks for your hard work and research regarding the importance of the gluteal muscles for every aspect of daily life, not just for the ethical aspect.
Oops. That is supposed to be aesthetic aspect. Sorry. Ann
I agree with Anon. Why would a website, whose sole purpose is about getting your glutes in shape, show photos of people whose glutes are NOT in shape? Now, I’m all for before/after photos, in fact I think those are the best because it shows his methods really do work, but would I want to go to a website spouting about how to get great glutes then see a man or woman whose glutes are poorly developed? Of course not!
As much as I realize that your target market is women, it gets a tad… old to see so many scantily clad women. Not that I would tell you to stop posting the images, but some gender diversity would make it seem less… misogynistic and more equal opportunity.
Yes I totally agree with this. It also depends on the posing of the subject. If the subject has fake breasts, a fake tan and seems hyper sexualized in the photo – it does some serious damage and just perpetuates “Fitspo”. Also, if you are posting about glutes – post good male ones too. It’s only fair! You might not be comfortable checking out photos of dude’s bare bums – but if you are catering to the ladies – we appreciate equality!
First off, I think you put out some awesome information.
However, just over the past week or two of checking out your blog, I’ve started to thinking to myself this same question about your posts. As a guy, I have less of an issue with the pics that you post and more of an issue with the fact that it only shows a small percentage of the way “great glute” can and do look. There are many many many great glutes out there that look beautiful and sexy but may have cellulite, stretch marks, scars, and body fat. There are many more great glutes in the population over 30 than there are in the under 30 which your posts tend to represent. Which means that the pictures you show are not a “real” representation of what great glutes actually look like in the true population. And for the majority of the population, especially women, are completely unattainable. Plus your pictures are almost exclusively of women. What do great sexy glutes for men look like? It kind of gives the feeling of a soft porn website, which may distract from the really high quality information that you put out.
I appreciate greatly that you are willing to put this question out there and challenge yourself. I shows a great respect for your business and your reader. I applaud you. Thanks.
Jesse James
“There are many many many great glutes out there that look beautiful and sexy but may have cellulite, stretch marks, scars, and body fat.”
They would not serve an educational purpose in the context of what Bret is doing because as great as those glutes may be, they’re covered up in fat and you can’t see them….
People want to see something to work toward.
stretch marks and a bit of cellulite dont cover up a good shape of glute and the majority of the female population have a good deal of it. A bit of fat doesnt hide a good shape either only a lot of it does.
I agree with Jesse I value the info on this site,(really it is brilliant) but some of the pictures make it look less reputable…I have had people raise their eyebrow at me when im looking at it.
Agreeing all over the place here. Love love the blog and the content, love photos of beautiful glutes (asses), but I do tend to hide the photos from my family. More photos like the gymnast and the gal above in purple leggings- amazing glutes, not sexual. It’s the sexuality that gets the eyebrows. Also agree that more ‘everyday women’ is a good option. Maybe you’re stuck with only posting photos of Kellie….but she’s a ‘real girl’, a non-professional-model, and has beautiful glutes!
I agree totally!
I mean, I agree with Jesse, not with Nick.
I agree with this. I inherited great glutes from my father. I’d love to see more men’s glutes, glutes from people my age (over 45) and great glutes with cellulite, scars, etc. My husband often looks over my shoulder when i read your blog and wonders why I’m looking at women.
What about giving equal time to guy glutes?
I approve this message!!!! Though I realize the program is designed for women, and the pics are supposed to be for inspiration, not gonna turn down some man glute. I guess that means I’m whatever the female version of a chauvinist is.
I agree with Katherine, I think it would be nice to see guys glutes as well. I still read bodybuilding mags, like to check out TNation etc. I can appreciate the work it takes, its completely fancinating to ivew and learn how these great glutes come to be so powerful, so amazingly awesome!
I know this sounds a bit immature, but still, if you really find it that offensive, just follow another blog.
I find the the pics a huge inspiration, it’s like fitspo.
I wonder if we would have this conversation it the author of the blow were woman?
You seem to think that this is another one of those inscrutable “women problems”. Showing pics of nice butts isn’t a problem, it’s the fact that the vast majority of them are of women’s butts in seductive/sexualized/soft porny pictures. How about a female powerlifter actually lifting a weight/doing something other than looking sexy for the camera? How about some sports action shots that are more about the functional than the decorative?
What about some great MEN’s glutes!?! Statistically, the majority of women are hetero and like men…and like look at men’s butts. You like women’s butts because you like women; most of us straight women like men’s butts because we like men. I don’t need to look at women’s butts for motivation or inspiration….I get that with my training and MY results.
Good idea Kaija. Well-trained MEN’s glutes, now that’s a real and effective inspiration to get girls in the gym. 🙂
Spot on!
I agree.
That’s exactly it. They aren’t just photos of people working out or snapshots showing improvements. They’re highly sexualized, posed photos of models. They’re designed to sell based on sex. It’s just so obvious and boring. I would be impressed by real life examples. Current approach is more for the bros.
I disagree. For the bros? I’m an evidence-based trainer and researcher who values my own male glutes as much as looking at any other examples. I disagree that these are ‘soft porny’ – that’s quite a stretch and not fair.
It seems that many of you are over-sensitive of the female body in it’s truly athletic and lean state.
Perhaps he could show progress oriented photos – a flat butt, then a semi flat butt, then a semi fat butt, then a built, semi lean butt, and then one of the ‘soft porn’ (lol) photos that seem to be causing so much drama.
Lean, developed bodies serve as the most efficient educational tools in terms of photographs. The leaner and more built a muscle is, the more you can see it work through movement, the more you can appreciate it for what is really looks like…etc…
I have NOTHING at all against a stockier woman who is strong and athletic, nor agaisnt your everyday woman who is on her journey to reshape her body into the one of her dreams.
I just feel as though people are being over-sensitive. This is an amazing blog, world-class really…and to nit-pick on stuff like this is just ridiculous IMHO. I don’t yet have a body like some of the girls he showsl, but it damn sure doesn’t make me feel upset and negative. On the contrary, it fires me up and makes me train harder and eat smarter.
Agreeing with Kaija!
And for the poll, it isn’t as simple as voting yes or no.
I do like the picture of the female pole vaulter, I do NOT like the picture with the caption ‘it’s just art to me’. That pictures makes it difficult to read your site with my young daughters in the room.
Hear, hear!!! I totally agree with this (Kaija). I’ve been following you for a while Bret and some of the photos are great but some are a little “seductive/sexualized/soft porny pictures”. I don’t think I’m offended, I just scroll past theses.
However, if there’s someone looking over my shoulder, then I’d probably close the page because it would look a bit weird (me looking at women in seductive/sexualized/soft porny poses).
On a lighter note, I’d also like to see more male glutes since I’m a straight female. I hope I’m not being hypocritical!
I suppose, even if you keep the photos, I’ll still read your blog because the content here is too good to ignore just because of a few pictures.
Cheers,
Frances.
I would have voted if you gave an option of male versus female photos. Why are only female glutes shown? If you represented males and females equally, I don’t see why anyone would have an issue with it. Personally, I appreciate the examples – your blogs are science based so there’s no question over your intentions.
Now thats not a fair quiz. The second photo is in a different category than the others because the pose is provocative.
I love the pictures! Keep them coming
Being a guy who appreciates great glutes I don’t mind seeing the pictures. Like stated in a previous comment would be nice to see more “real world” pics although as I understand it you do have a testimonial section with clients you have trained. Plus I am sure not all clients would feel as comfortable as models would. I feel like it adds to the blog posts.
Maybe have an option to have the pics included or not. I know of a blog(c&p) that has it set that certain pics are not shown when 1st starting up the blog. Obviously not the same kind of pics you are posting but you also have a different target audience.
If you were ‘The Chest and Arms Guy’ instead of the glute guy and embedded photos of well-developed, and probably overwhelmingly male, shirtless physiques (read: The antithesis of what you are getting this negative feedback from) do you think anyone would even blink an eye? As fitness enthusiasts and professionals we tend to see a well-defined glute with the same admiration as a well-defined calf, or bicep, or left oblique. Those who only view these pictures through a misguided oversensitivity to the human body undermine the models/athletes hard work, dedication, and tarnishes what should be a moment of admiration for their end result. I guess I can say is to me this reeks of a double standard that says a guy who works hard for his physique is worth admiration but a woman who works hard for hers is pornographic.
Well said.
THANK YOU. Over-sensitivity to the female body. It’s social stigma and programming that means nothing. There are photos of scantily clad male bodybuilders and fitness models by the billions on the internet, and nobody seems to have a problem.
Stop nit-picking an amazing blog and a brilliant, driven researcher. The quality of Bret’s work PROVES WITHOUT A DOUBT what his true intentions here are. And it’s not a soft porn website. Jesus.
blog* haha. ;-P
I love Jesse’s point. I like seeing nice butts in the real world versus models looking sexy. I mean…those are nice too, don’t get me wrong but in general people don’t look like that…and even those ladies don’t look like that all the time, I mean hopefully they put on pants at some point! 🙂
In general the pictures are inspiring to me though.
This is a blog about building glutes. Any blog worth its cyber-space has relevant pictures supporting its purpose. They are a source of inspiration to people, men and women. As a personal trainer, I need to have benchmarks to work toward in my own female clients, and the pictures you post are just that. (For male clients too, no one likes a guy with a pancake butt…nor does his spine…)
In MY opinion, the naysayers need to calm down and not be so uptight…and stop taking something that **CLEARLY** has no harm intended as offensive.
It’s quite annoying, to be frank. ; )
You da man Bret, I love your blog and as always, you were the first legitimate step in expanding my horizons on physical culture.
Word Nick.
Absolutely Nick.
Not a single thing wrong with you using these awesome pictures. Lemme guess, it’s degrading? These women in these pictures go looking to be photographed like this, they WANT to show off and be looked at. These pictures only inspire. Anyone who says different has a self issue. That is it. Just lookin to stir up a mess and cause conflict with someone (you) who is offering HELP. And that is wrong. Keep on keepin on.
I love glutes, women and looking at women. And I’m straight.
I couldn’t vote because I don’t want you to stop posting all pictures… BUT I am not a fan of the sexual ones. “It’s just art” isn’t just art in my opinion. The mirror post is more inspirational. Good luck, it’s a tough line to walk and you can’t make everyone happy, but I appreciate your trying!
I think the posed figure model lingerie shots are overused and find them annoying and objectifying, personally. They are more like soft porn than athletic motivation, and I think that detracts from your message. I prefer glute pics of athletes in action, such as the pole vaulter above, to the posed figure model on the aerobic step. Pictures of figure models in competition are great, but outside of competition or training shots, I think it’s a bit tacky. Also, why not some male examples of great flutes, also in the athletic context?
Male example of great flutes?
Oh the irony in your simple typo. 😉
I love glute pictures as much as anyone, I just don’t care for those in which the woman looks like she’s getting ready to take it from behind. I agree with another poster- I’d love to see reader-submitted glute pictures. Much more motivating than models.
I’d also like to see reader submitted photos and works in progress. Seeing only perfect glutes can be motivating, but also discouraging as in we will never achieve that level of perfection. Let’s see photos of women as they progress. That would be inspiring.
Your blogposts are about glutes, so you need to keep including the pictures. Matter of fact, you need MORE pictures. I suggest including some men’s glutes. Your videos have a lot of men in them, so why not photos as well? Secondly, more “real” butts, in action, lifting things, etc, and less figure competitor-ish types posing a perfectly round bottom would be a great addition. Before and After type pictures are always a crowd pleaser as well.
Nick, do you look at pictures of men with great asses for motivation? Why do you think that’s we do or want?
I have a picture of the Governator and a picture of Adelfo Cerame (IFBB Wheelchair Pro) printed out and hanging from my desk at work. Yes I do look at male glutes for a benchmark for my own glutes. I take alot of pride in them and I thank Bret for that.
I didn’t say all women want any specific trait, I said some do. There are about 20 different females who compete in bikini shows that train at the gym I use. They all have the goal of looking like what Bret posts. (Or are already there)
My friend and client has pictures like ones found on this blog on her Instagram feed and looks at them constantly as a source of motivation. She’s even got one as the wallpaper on her background!
But is he posed in a very sexual “fuck me” pose designed more to titillate than inspire?!? I can show you some examples, because they do exist, mostly in gay porn. If that’s not your thing, consider how nice it must be to not have it shoved at you in 90% of blogs and advertisements and media images.
Just because figure competitors, whose livelihood relies on looking like the images on Bret’s blog, and a couple of women you know don’t have a problem with it doesn’t mean that everyone with a vagina agrees…as evidenced by the comments.
I like a good physique pic whether male or female as long as it’s mainly about strength and aesthetics and not overly sexualised. There IS a difference between sensual and sexual, not that North Americans tend to consider that much…
Your website is great and I love the blog. However I feel that you overly use “sex sells” method, which makes you seem a bit cheap…guess especially for women. I find that professionalism does not have to go hand in hand with the mass expectations. But if you really want not only men but also women look up to you and your site , you should look for more sporty pictures not the playboy types and you should paste male glute achievements so that women’s eyes can have some joy too….just in case.
Ok. Hard survey. Some of your pictures are a bit…ummm…racy. I’m a flight attendant and reading your articles up on my laptop in an airport…prove embarrassing if someone catches a glimpse at my computer. Just the almost naked ones. I’m all for great glutes (working on a pair of my own) but the bare ass licking a lollipop, clutching a breast…yeah. Let’s just say I try to scroll past them for your ultra informative information and opinions.
As a middle-aged woman who carries more than 25% body fat (and was working on Strong Curves before being slowed down by a rotator cuff injury), I agree with Jesse. Let’s have some variety.
As a woman, I don’t have a problem with them. However, I do read your blog mostly in the am on my work computer – so I scroll past the pics rather quickly anyway.
As another commenter mentioned – it would be nice to see *real* people as opposed to professionally posed model shots. I’d rather see something realistic over that which has been heavily airbrushed. As a graphic designer – I can assure you ANYONE can have perfect looking glutes with Photoshop.
Wouldn’t NOT having pictures of great glutes on your page be like a caterer not having pictures of food on their site? Or a construction company not having pictures of past projects? I know some argue that the disembodied pictures are a sexist, but maybe the model didn’t want her head in the shot. People who have great physiques can also be modest.
I find the client progress pics far more inspirational and motivational than the stock photos of professionals. Yes, the models had to start from somewhere, but the level of time and focus required to develop a model physique is not reasonable for the majority of people.
On the other hand, the real transformations of ordinary people that you have posted in your testimonial posts are accurate, realistic depictions of the truly inspiring effect of attainable levels of training.
I am not offended by your current practice, but I would be even happier with more “real world” photos.
Here, here!
I applaud your effort to ask this question; it seems particularly timely in light of the (also impressive) blog post circulating now criticizing fitspo images. While I completely agree with the points raised in the blog, I never find your advice to be over the top, dangerous, unhealthy, or critical of those who still have work to do. If people don’t like the images you choose to share on your blog, they are free to ignore your blog – though of course, you may want to maximize readership. Would I still read your blog if you didn’t feature the images? Sure. Would more people who are maybe offended by glutes – the topic of your blog – read it if you didn’t? Maybe. But if photos of fab glutes are a thing you want to share, I hope you wouldn’t curtail that for a sake of a few readers who don’t share your view.
I love the pictures!
I love the glute pictures! Plenty of the women in the strong curves group on Facebook are in their fourties and fifties, and you’d guess from their pictures they are in their twenties like me, so i wouldn’t automatically assume these women are super young. I love having something to aspire to.
First of all I love your blog and Strong Curves has changed me, I love it. That being said, I don’t think are the glutes pictures that people find offensive but the Banana Coconut Flour hypersexualisation of women in the pictures, the poses, the provocative attitude. I don’t find nudity offensive, at all, but it would also be great to post pictures of “real” people, not only competitors in a professional photoshoot, real glute progression pictures, and some male pictures too, we also love booties! 😉
OMG please ignore the Banana Coconut Flour, I was looking how to write hypersexualisation cause I’m Spanish and I wanted to write it correctly but it has copied a recipe I was doing LOL
Estefania that’s hilarious! I was wondering what you meant. Banana coconut flour sounds good 🙂
Hahhahahaaaaa I know, I’m gonna need copyright of it “Banana Coconut Flour Hypersexualisation” 😀
ESTEFANIA! You totally made my day. No, you made my week. Classic. I am going to use the online translator more often.:)
Where can I buy some of that Banana Coconut Flour? I want to bake a cake . . .
I nearly choked on my dinner when I read your correction … I was thinking: “Hmmm, that’s a new one” LMAO!!!!!
Oh my… you can’t pin recipes and use google translation at the same time. And my 3 favorite fitness people have read it, Bret, Kellie and Marianne, I feel like a banana coconut flour fool! LOL
Not having pics of great glutes would be like having a site about getting biceps but there are no pics of any great arms.
As a male, I view your blogs and site because of the wealth of information. The nice glutes of women that you post is a nice treat.
As a doctor, I send at least a dozen patients to your site a week. If I felt you were unprofessional in any way, I wouldn’t.
Keep doing what you are doing.
As a lifelong entrepreneur and marketer, my perspective may be slightly different than the other comments. My advice is to keep being you. You can’t be everything to everyone. What you risk in alienating a small population is nothing in comparison to what you risk in compromising your appeal to your core market. Always maintain your “entrepreneurial integrity”, if you will.
Also, as a straight dude, I wouldn’t mind pictures of men’s glutes. This site is about learning about glutes. I never saw it as sexual. I’m a huge fan, by the way.
The survey didn’t ask all the right questions. I LOVE seeing great glutes! There are pictures that you post that can come across as more offensive/sexual/blah blah whatever the right term is. I think just being more selective when posting pics would be a good idea. For instance, the female pole vaulter– awesome glutes– awesome picture of an athlete doing athletic stuff. However, girl in g-string on the beach with her butt in the air– not so much. That may be where the issue is. It’s not that you are posting glutes, but that you are sometimes posting glutes that are more sexual and less athletic in nature.
I think Erin hits the nail on the head. It’s the sexualization of some of your pictures that is troubling. Perhaps you might be familiar with the quote by Potter Steward: “I can’t define what is pornography, but I know it when I see it.” Same thing with some of your pictures – some cross the line.
What she said!!! That is exactly the issue!!!
I’m pretty ok with pictures. Some of them are a bit distasteful but they do illustrate the point. I’m more concerned with the message of some of the articles, e.g., how to get the body of Zoe Saldana, how to get a Brazilian butt and similar. Such articles ignore the fact that women have different body shapes and no matter how they train&eat, many women will never look like Zoe Saldana/Nathalia Melo simply because they have very different genetics. Mass media often invite women to compare their bodies with other women. I wish there was more focus on inviting women to take care of their own health and their own bodies, to let them develop their own unique beauty instead of trying to look like somebody else. Healthy, athletic, confident women who love themselves and their bodies are attractive. Always. It’s this simple, however I know many fit, beautiful and charming women who never feel good enough simply because they do not look some celebrity. Fitness professionals would do a great job by inspiring a woman to make the priority her own health, her unique body shape, her unique beauty, her strength, her thoughts and her feelings, not someone else’s.
Just my opinion, there are loads of great information here. It is just the way in which this information is served that sometimes puts me a bit off.
I would expect pics of glutes on the blog and page of a man who is famous for building them. I think the information you present on your blog is fantastic. It is clearly written by someone who really understands fitness and loves creating beautiful, strong women. Don’t change anything.
I think the pics are fine. However, I think you should also post some pics of your (not so perfect glute girls) that have been working very hard on their glutes but may never look like the chicks in these photos. Keep it real for everybody.
Hey Bret!
I love what you do! I love your training, blog and programs. You are incredibly informative and share quality, research based material that is helpful for all readers. Here’s my thoughts on this booty pic topic. I run a women’s only boxing club that is all about empowering women, supporting them in building inner & outer strength and helping them set realistic expectations. We also are completely against mainstream ideas about beauty, body, diets, etc. I hate fitspo pics and blogs that quietly speak to people’s insecurities as an attempt to motivate. Now I don’t think you do that at all. I understand why you use the pics you do and they do not offend me at all. But with that said, sometimes I don’t share you posts because I don’t want to offend my students or make them think I am promoting a certain body type as ideal. I know why you do what you do and I appreciate and respect you as a trainer. Unfortunately due to society’s need to make women (and men) feel they must look a certain way to be sexy, attractive, fit, etc most people have an instant reaction to images like above. As a trainer/coach myself I look at those photos like you do as art and admiring the human body and it’s potential. I also have a pretty strong body image so I don’t feel badly about myself if I don’t look like the women in those pictures. I would say for me the pictures aren’t really offensive or motivating. Yes of course I want my body to be best it can be, but I focus more on my body and what it can do, so seeing someone else’s doesn’t drive me. But that’s just me.
I think for the most part the pics you use demonstrate glute development/the subject of your writing, some of the pictures in my opinion are a bit sexual and may cause a negative reaction with some readers. But again I get it and don’t take it the way some may.
Okay sorry to ramble. Point is I am not sure what you should do. I would stay true to who you are. If you feel that it would help you get your info and message out by changing the images you post than do it, if you feel doing so would hinder your purpose than don’t remove them. Again personally I get why you use those images and I don’t judge you for posting them. It’s hard to say what is the best direction to go. I guess it will take some review of your poll results and contemplation on what is best for you and your mission.
Thanks for being willing to poll your audience and being open to people’s feedback. It would of course be easier to just ignore people and do whatever you want, but the fact that you are being thoughtful about this issue is admirable!
Thanks for providing all of us with great info and more!
Jess
This was very well said and I completely agree.
I totally agree.
Honestly, You keep doing what you are doing. What you post is scientific based functionality Of how importance glute work is not only to function first of various moves, but to the overall end look as well. Now for those who want to see things equal gender based so that they won’t call a woman’s group on you? Sure you can include men as well that demonstrate proper technique and form as well as women. But don’t for one second ever second guess what you are doing. You just had girls gone strong post a video snippet on Facebook with different women thanking you for what you do. God bless and please continue forward with what you do best.
Elizabeth Cruickshank: “I took the survey, but the wording of the questions didn’t really allow me to give the feedback I wanted to. And thank you for taking the time to address this. I would like to see less sexualized posts of women, and more athletic posts. Even within the article the first picture is of an athlete, performing, and is a wonderful display of the aesthetic achieved with glutal development. The second one, though yes is shapely, but is not in my opinion an empowering pictures, I feel that some of the pictures selected are objectifying, and this is restricted to the female pictures. So in short, yes I want to see what hard work can achieve, but not the sexualization. A good question to ask, is would I post this of a man doing the same thing? Also, I don’t think you need those types of pictures to get noticed. Thanks!”
I agree with Elizabeth and the others here who would like more “real world” pics (male and female), vs “artistic” pics. I LOVE your glute info!
You got some great comments.I wish the quiz had the option–“keep posting pictures of great glute development, but stay away from the soft porny airbrushed ones of women in come hither poses. ” And show some variety! Not all women are under 30, or even under 50, and some of us come in different body shapes and colors.
Yes! Exactly. The survey seemed to want a specific response…one that allowed Bret to prove himself right. That’s precisely the question that should have been there!
Perhaps it’s just too many pictures for them? I definitely don’t think you should stop completely.. it’s motivating and does show proper development.
I do like Ann’s comment on airbrushed photos, etc. But these sexual poses are also what drive women/men to want shape changes. Butt’s are important and some people come here for the strength and others come here because they want a better looking butt. I’ll keep reading as I believe content is king. And you write great information.
I actually find all the pictures to be motivating and inspirational. Since, I am a woman seeing other women get REAL results via pictures it gives me hope to keep pushing. This is by far the BEST Glute blog that I have found and the exercises really work. Bret keep up the awesome job and I’ll keep thrusting and watching my curves be enhanced.
I don’t find the pictures offensive at all. As a matter of fact when I first came upon your blog I read a post that had a lot of pictures of women with amazing glutes and it inspired me to get your book and start working harder.
Needless to say I was sadly disappointed when I tried to find that article again and most of the pictures were gone. Now I know why. Someone must have complained.
I WANT to have glutes like those women. It may not turn out exactly like them but at least it inspires me to try my hardest.
I don’t think you should change a thing. People who are offended by it, and it seems to be mostly women, I feel have issues about themselves.
Keep up the good work!
I think it is commendable that you are polling you’re readers to see what they prefer. I imagine your poll will probably tell you to keep posting the pictures. I am a big fan of your site and love what you are doing here but couldn’t answer your poll because they’re yes or no answers and I don’t think it is that simple.
Since this is a glute site and I come here for information and inspiration on how to improve my glutes, I like seeing photos of good glutes (either male or female). And pictures like the 1st one are fine – they depict good glutes.
But when I see pics of women in provocative poses that are clearly sexual, as a women that lives in a world where every magazine trying to sell something has a half naked women in some sexual pose which is clearly objectifying and speaking only to men, I take issue. I think this is what gets tapped into when you hear women complaining about pics on your site.
Just because it is commonplace to see this sexist and objectifying cultural behavior does not make it acceptable or right. And I think it does nothing to support the plight of women…or bring out the best in our male counterparts either. But I digress.
Now let me be clear here, I think most of the pics you post here are not super sexualized, which is why I come back, but I have seen a few questionable ones. My request would be for you to be thoughtful about the images of women you choose to post and be a part of creating a more supportive world for women. Thank you.
Thank you for this comment Julie; you hit the nail on the head and it’s nice to see I’m not the only one who feels this way.
I responded to the survey on the blog, but I’ll say here that I love the pics of shapely butts and even if I never achieve the perfect ass, I enjoy the art of the human body.
Perhaps you’d receive fewer complaints if you also showed the same number of pictures of great glute development in men. That would show that the emphasis was on gluteal development in both genders instead of emphasizing only females in, as you admit, sexually provocative poses that often leave little (glute-wise) to the imagination. I know that I have posted more than once in the Facebook group about how women also like to see men with nice glutes, so why not put in the effort to find those pictures as well? Use pictures on your blog to inspire the men the same way your posts of women are supposed to inspire women. Great glutes for all!!
Firstly, I think you need to show both genders; before and after pics of guys and their glutes; pics of guys who train ‘only’ their shoulders, etc. Gender equality!
Secondly, I reckon that pictures of great glutes are better if done in context rather than simply a great ass in a porn shot.
The pix made me uncomfortable at first but your info was solid so I stuck with it. I have since realized how I needed an education in what glutes should ideally look like and these pix have done that. I transformed but still had flat pancake butt. Not sexy and still a body not performing well and lots of pain. Keep the pix but show men as well and more athletes, less back arching which it turns out is very painful when posing. I love knowing how a butt is supposed to look and when I am losing mine – which happens quite easily.
As we all know some people are genetically inclined to better glutes than others. That is why I like to see before and after pics, especially of the people that have followed your instructions or guidance.
I bet men don’t protest. We are hardwired to love female glutes. Some women do,protest, especially those who deny to work on themselves and who would wish men were attracted to them without them actually having to take care of themselves. Truth deeply rooted in evolutionary biology is that men are attracted to beauty and women are attracted to confidence. Fortunately, I live in Europe where almost every woman works on her feminity, but in the US this is a problem. All that equality destroys true feminine essence, as well as true masculine essence, and nobody is happy.
“I live in Europe where almost every woman works on her feminity. (sic)”
That isn’t a Europe I recognize. I think you’re thinking of Stepford. You know, the one the wives come from.
“All that equality destroys true feminine essence, as well as true masculine essence”
Even better. Now excuse me while I destroy my own masculine essence by bashing my head into a wall.
Marry me, Trev!
I mean Eastern Europe. Britain or some western countries is a different story…unfortunately. But even the fact that something like this gets discussed, that men basically ask women “Is it ok to show glutes on my personal glute development site? Aren’t you offended?” shows you something is wrong with the prevailing US mentality at the moment. People who lived in communism will simply never accept political correctness, because it’s the same kind of BS.
As a woman who suffered from flat butt syndrome most of my life, I see the photos as inspirational and definitely motivational. Keep on posting!
P.S. Ladies’ shoulders would be nice too! But I know you’re the Glute Guy!
Ummm… I love seeing the pics of what could be. I need visual motivation. Keep them coming!
I didn’t even know I could have glutes like that until I found you online. Keep up the good work and keep embedding the pictures. They’re inspirational!
If you wish to further “inform and educate” by using visual aids, that is, photos of well developed glutes on male and female lifters, athletes and such, then YES, that is inspiring and helpful.
If you wish to inspire real women to look like a photoshopped pics of young-ish women in provocative poses, sticking their butts out and pouting, then NO, leave those for another blog.
Also, just let me say that your polling questions and selection of answers are too limiting for you to get a good ‘”read” on what your readers what.
Suggested Question/Answers:
What kind of photos of glutes inspire you? Select all answers that apply.
( ) Any kind
( ) Ladies
( ) Men
( ) Athletes
( ) Weightlifters of all categories
( ) Regular people
( ) Don’t like any photos, they are inappropriate
What kind of elements in the photo bother you, or detract from inspiring?
( ) Full glute nudity
( ) Women wearing thongs
( ) Suggestive posing
( ) Partial glute nudity
and so on….
What kinds of elements in the photo inspire you?
( ) seeing good definition
( ) that there’s no overt airbrushing
( ) with a little history/detail about the person in photo
and so on…
Laura’s feedback is great and I agree with that. Your questions themselves are limiting and make it seem as though you don’t understand where some of the criticism is coming from. I didn’t answer the questions because they were not helpful or understanding of the criticism and they grouped ALL the types of pictures you post together. You do clearly post different types of pictures, as you showed in today’s post as the second picture was a different type of picture from the first and third. I’m not saying I’m offended or bothered by any of the pictures, though I do have to be careful of reading your blog entries when I’m at work because the pictures are clearly overly sexual and provacative at times.
I don’t mind the pictures. I’m male. My girlfriend would prolly not be interested in your blog, solely based on the photo-presence.
She is a professional modern dancer, and so has excellent leg and glute development, but I just know she’d think it was a bit silly having the photos up there.
I appreciate b
Bret, first of all many thanks for creating this poll.
However, it is not the glutes themselves that I do find offensive, but the excess of photoshop or sensual/lingerie poses. Nevertheless, your training information is the best I have ever found and is good to know how a good developed butt can look.
The glute guy should post glute shots, of course, but what about the surgical enlarged boobs that often come in the same picture? Would you clarify what is their purpose if is not just ornamental? Are there any exercises that would just due to hard work create such upper perkinesses? Don’t get me bad, is nothing personal, I believe that you are a great person and are on the right path, so, please think about any teenager girl in your family. Even if she is very athletic, do you think that those photos will encourage her or just make her sad about her looks? Many of the bodies you show are impossible to achieve if you don’t go under the knife. Is that the message you want to spread? The same as every fitness page? Please, have real women in your shots, or at least include a little footnote explaining any artificial enhancements.
Thanks for reading.
Bret, dude, it’s YOUR blog.
Do things YOUR way, that is all.
My girlfriend might not like me looking at pictures like the ones you post (for obvious reasons) but if I’m reading an article of yours then glute pictures are par the course.
People need to stop getting their knickers in a twist,they can ssimply bugger off and find another glute experts blog who doesn’t post these images.
Oh, that’s right, there is no one else.
Put up or shut up is what I say.
Agreed! Post the pictures that you find, they prove your point. Keep on posting them – they really motivate me 🙂
Personally, I don’t think the glute pictures add anything to the site. I’m more interested in the information on training, training principals than pictures of someone’s butt …. female or male…..being an LMT (as well as CSCS) I see plenty and I don’t need to see more.
And then there’s the issue that I work with female trainers and friends who have commented that they don’t like the emphasis on the female posterior.
I agree the pictures can be motivating – especially the before and after pictures. But I think it is important to take responsibility for how the pictures may impact your audience. Many of the pictures you use are of ultra developed glutes of women in sexy poses, which is not a realistic goal for many women (besides the fact that these sexy female pics further perpetuate gender stereotypes). Showing individuals of different sizes, shapes, gender, and overall fitness (in non-sexy poses) will help all readers better identify with the pictures. I love the content of your blog and would hate for lots of people to be turned off from it based on the pictures. And I don’t think you are very likely to convince men that glute training is not just for the ladies if the site only contains…. pictures of ladies. Let’s spread the glute gospel to all!!
Keep up the great work, Bret!!
You might be surprised. I’m male, and I’ve taken up hip thrusts based on this site. I even bought the Strong Curves book. (For my wife 🙂 I’m the only one who read it, but she does hip thrusts, too.)
Sorry, maybe I should have specified that as the “general male population.” I know many men have been convinced of the importance of glute development based on Bret’s work (I now have my husband doing hip thrusts as well!). I would just hate for the picture content on the blog to make a man think it is “just for women.”
Lol, well this is an interesting topic for sure. I’ve seen lots of articles of late making a rather compelling case that “fitspo” depresses women instead of inspiring them. I tend to agree with this. The message from these pictures seems to be that if you don’t have a fitness-model butt, you just ain’t cutting it. But in fact, glutes come in all shapes and sizes.
The shape of a person’s glutes is also largely genetic. My 9-year-old was born with a flat butt just like I was. Some of her classmates already have well-developed butts without even trying! I’ve been able to grow mine in the last few years via intense weightlifting; however, even with all the squatting and hip thrusting in the world I’ll never have a shelf butt – it’s just not in my genetic makeup. I’m super proud of what I’ve accomplished though.
Since you have such a large audience, how about paying some respect to ALL glute shapes and not just the small percent that are “perfect” in your view?
Thanks for asking, Bret. I don’t know that your polling questions or responses are broad enough. I really appreciate your passion, your knowledge base and what you offer the world. I own your book and am now a member of Get Glutes. The way I think about the photos you post on your blog is this, you mean well, your intentions are good, you are helping me and I assume many other women to understand and embrace lifting weight and building a better more shapely butt. But more often than not, the photos you choose are of a sexual nature and can have the effect of creating a very high standard (this is a societal standard and you are not the only one who is perpetuating it). Your middle ground is lacking in imagery. I for one, and I have asked you this through email, would like to see more photos of regular women, like myself, who do not aspire to be a bikini model, do not pose provocatively, but are just as strong, able and willing to show glute progress. I hesitated to join Get Glutes because of the photos on your blog. And honestly, I don’t want you to stop showing off the cream of the crop, because I too think it is gorgeous and inspiring, but I would like to see more photos that would inspire an average gal to get on board, lift heavy things, become more shapely and feel proud to have done so. Right now the imagery you are using is mainstream and oriented to the male gaze. So, my suggestion is, shake it up, embrace the middle ground, desexualize (some) and reinvigorate the imagery you use. I bet it will make Strong Curves and Get Glutes more approachable and and ultimately more salable.
^ she has some interesting thoughts, Bret!
THIS!
As a male, I love the information you put out dealing with glute/back/posterior chain. Also, as a male, I think the women you post look gorgeous, however, I think more realism and less ‘picturesque’ photos are in order. I say this mainly for the purposes of sharing your knowledge. That being said, I think you should add more men. Not that I find men’s butts sexually attractive, but if you asked me to sum up what kind of trainer I think Bret Contreras is, I’d say you concentrated on training women, and I think it’s important that men understand how glute/back/posterior affects them as well.
I guess I should also take into account that my thoughts were primed from a post of awesome looking women and wondering if there were too much of them.
Keep up the great work!
I love the pictures! I love looking at the kind of GLUTES I want, please don’t stop posting the pictures!
I can’t tell you how much it bothers me that this is even an issue for some people. As someone who has been overweight, anorexic, and now just fit, I can say I have been on every side of the looking glass. In my opinion, those photos are not only great visual depictions of what you’re talking about in reference to glute development, they are also incredibly inspiring photos, and personally make me want to get off my ass and go work it! If your glutes look like that, good for you! And if you aspire to have your glutes that look like that, then these photos are a good reminder to put down that extra piece of cake and find your nearest hip thruster apparatus. I am so sick of our overly sensitive, falsely PC society filled with people who simply don’t want to face themselves or the truth – it takes hard work to get there, and you deserve all the kudos in the world once you do. Either don’t look at the photos and be happy with yourself or do something about it. But don’t sit back, acting all high and mighty and just complain. End of rant.
I did the survey, but also felt compelled to respond here so it is able to be viewed publicly. ABSOLUTELY NOT! Posting pictures of healthy, strong women should be encouraged! You don’t post offensive or shaming pictures (as some other blogs do…) and you include real science behind it. I have taken much away from your site, and used some of that knowledge to begin to train women of various sizes, ages and health. I consistently refer women to your page for motivation and support for what I tell them to do in training. Most women that come see me have flat glutes and serious pelvic tilt issues. And they don’t even know it!
Plus, I am a fan of “if you don’t like it- don’t look!” You shouldn’t change your business (or way of business) because someone may take offense. People are offended far too easily. If it isn’t this, is will just be another thing.
I do like the glute pictures, but why are they only of female glutes? I sometimes assume your blog is for women because that’s most of what I see. If its not, and if you don’t want to seem chauvinist then I think you should include more pictures of male glutes aswell! (Besides women like a man with a nice ass too!)
I dont check your site often because I find the pictures unartistic and more pornographic. It is all in the lighting, the pose of the model, various stages of dress or undress, various stages of activity vs stillness, the background, and if the face is visible or not. Speaking of the face, is it a man or woman? What is the age? Where are the eyes gazing, how far apart are the lips parted, is there teeth and tongue showing, how moist do the lips look and how is the head and neck oriented? Does she look as if in a position of power or submission? The human body is beautiful, we come into this world naked and full of potential. As adults we need to be strong and powerful in our beauty. That definitely includes our sexuality, but we are not objects to be toyed. The first picture that came with this poll would be more artistic and to the point of awe if she was fully nude standing on draped platform with a background that accents all that her whole backside is. But, she is wearing a dumb boring sports bra standing on a step bench that cuts her body lines in two and to me communicates only one thing (f*ck me now, or at least masturbate to my picture). Be the Glute Guy not the Fap Guy.
Bret, I’m fine with the pix. But how hard would the following be? Insert a little javascript on your page that gives the reader the choice to view the pix or not. Just a toggle button to remove/show the pix on the spot. And perhaps set a cookie, so the next time the user comes back to the site (from the same browser), the previous choice is remembered.
I don’t find them distasteful. I can understand why a lot of people would be ‘pro’ such photos. I will say if you’re ‘guilty’ of anything it isn’t slipping into ‘jock voice’ it’s almost ‘science nerd’ voice. You love the science, share the science, debate the science and can get down in the weeds. I think that’s good and why I’m on your list but it can seem incongruous to look up from a text book like narrative and see Weider Publication style photos.
It’s more humorous and gives you a different feel than WebMd and more Maxim magazine.
If you were the ‘Triceps Guy’ you wouldn’t be having this conversation, lol
I think there was a problem Bret ran into is more to do with the fact that the head of the woman had been cut out of the picture. Personally I don’t care. I find the pictures Bret has posted aesthetically pleasing however some women may not feel the same way.
Bret, I am a subscriber of Get Glutes, have read your book Strong Curves, and am a daily reader of much of what you post. I am so impressed with your generous and professional approach to glute development and your dedication to female empowerment. Your offerings are well-balanced with current results from the literature, anatomical descriptions, clinical details, and beautiful depictions of the human body with strong glute development. You are giving away so much information and motivation every day. I actually signed up with GG partially because i could not accept any more coaching from you for free. I love the content, and also love to see someone who has passion and excitement for continued development of knowledge in their field. Please don’t change what you are doing or how you are doing it. Strong glutes can look very sexy and I don’t see a thing wrong with that. It makes the world go around. The photos are inspiring, positive, and fun and are very motivating to me. Thanks for all you do, Bret!
I personally see nothing wrong with the photos you post on your blog. I think it is important to know what a good butt looks like and most stock images will have some sexy undertone in them. It’s not like you are taking every photo personally. In reading the comments it seems to be a mixed bag. As a straight man I don’t expect you to be posting photos of men in skimpy cut off jeans bending over to pick up the newspaper with a sheepish grin as your blog header. But I commend you for asking the question. Point is, this is an issue with main stream media and not your blog alone. Sexy women sell magazines. In my opinion, most women appreciate a good looking female as well as men do. If not for the beauty, for the motivation. I do not expect you to post average or below average glute photos all the time. It depends on the context of the article. If Maxim or Treats or FHM were given the same scrutiny they’d be out of business. But your blog is about glutes and that does not mean women alone. Perhaps a compromise of more “real life results” and more men would satisfy the crowd. But this is your blog and you do not need to always cater to the masses. Kudos for asking the question. About Bob’s comment, this could be a decent solution…
There is a qualitative difference between photos of athletes doing what they do, great glutes and all, and soft-core pornography. As many above have indicated, some of your photos cross that line. It’s not ‘offensive and distasteful’; it’s just tacky.
Posting pictures of both men and women, of all ages and sizes, and avoiding photos which are overtly sexualized would remedy the problem. Asking if you should avoid posting all pictures of glutes, on a blog that is ABOUT glutes, comes across as passive-aggressive.
I cant believe people have complained
Ive gained 2 glute inches from the 30 day hipthrust challenge. I thank you Mr glute guy 🙂
I think the pictures are inspirational and phenomenal. I have saved many to my iPad so I can remember what I’m working towards. I think they are always tasteful.
I’m a female and I don’t find your glute pics offensive at all but I do feel a bit awkward when people happen to take look at my laptop screen when I’m reading your blog lol.
I don’t know if this actually happens but perhaps it’s harder for some people to take your stuff seriously if you have allot of booty pics because the images are prob the first thing that they notice and they might judge you for that and perhaps not take you as seriously (or just think you’re a douche…I have female friends that would feel that way though I’m not offended by things like that because I don’t interpret that as you subjugating women or anything).
Also, more prude people may be less likely to take your advice because they might not ever read it because of the images. My dad suffers from severe low back pain so I end up paraphrasing allot of the stuff you write but I probably wouldn’t direct him to your site because of how he might react to the booty pics lol
Under the questions “Do you find this offensive?” and “Do you want me to stop?” you should have provided answer options beyond “yes” and “no” like “Hell no!” and “Are you out of your damn mind?!”
Keep the glutes! I agree–a nice set of glutes is a beautiful thing to look at, and I personally find inclusion of these photos motivating. It gets me excited to work harder on my glutes! I don’t think it diminishes the success of men and women with older, less lean, or more cellulite-covered bodies, it’s just celebrating those at the top echelon. Not to mention, it differentiates your blog and shows your personality. That said, I wouldn’t complain about seeing some great male glutes join your blog posts. And that might appease those irked by the gender imbalance.
The pictures you post Bret are awesome, motivating, inspiring and like you say its art, the human body, especially the female form should be admired. People that have issues with looking at beautiful pictures of great bodies have got to ask themselves why they have issues? Its not like they are pornographic pictures.The people with complaints obviously aren’t happy with their own body or are self conscious small minded individuals, these negative people need to get over themselves! Keep the pictures coming, they are great motivation
As you have told me before Bret: “keep going!!” You motivate us, we need to back you up too. Keep the pics coming… men, women, fit, not so fit etc….. THEY ARE ONLY PICTURES OF HUMAN ANATOMY…. my kids see the pics and they don’t have a problem because I obviously would discuss why they are there and the pictures are NOT offensive. I don’t want my kids to be uptight about the human body. I like getting an eyeful of good glutes… male or female. Maybe I’m just a laid back Aussie but … keep ’em coming!!!
I personally find all the pictures you post motivational, but I LOVE seeing the real life pics – particularly the before and afters. They’re the posts and links that I often come back to.
Love that you asked the question though, Bret. Thank you!
NO…not offensive at all..it’s very motivating and I LOVE looking at other girls’ nice and perky booties. It drives me to work harder on mine as I am not blessed with nice perky round glute.
For those women who might find it a bit offensive, well might have to research what’s their background. Are they lifting or knowledgeable about weight lifting or are those the ones that are still in the zone that women shouldn’t lift weights and only do cardio.
On the other hand, there might be the way the girls pose on the picture might be in a sensual way so I could totally see the point.
Just my 2 cents. Keep up the good work and keep those perky, sexy, round booties pictures coming! 🙂
Bret,
I think you are seriously missing the point. There is a difference between inspiring photos of glutes – on athletes, in progress photos, in a full-body shot – and the sleazy gratuitous photos you sometimes post that have almost nothing to do with fitness and everything to do with sex appeal. Before you post a picture of a woman’s glutes, ask yourself: Is she actually accomplishing something? Do you have photos of men in similar poses? Is she an athlete? Is she wearing appropriate clothes? Does her face look like she is at the gym, not sexy? Does she even have a face in the picture? When the answer to those questions is “no”, then you should think twice before posting, and ask the same questions of the photos you post of men.
I think you are an inspiring person and I admire your dedication to fitness and how helpful you are to everyone, particularly women. But there is a big contradiction to me in the respect which you ostensibly show for women – I sometimes think you take us as seriously as male lifters – and in the photos you post of us which reduce us to sweaty, sexy, headless and scantily-clad bodies that could double as content for a sleazy men’s magazine. In a world where women each day struggle to love their bodies, to see themselves as more than just a nice ass or great boobs, to not give a damn about who finds us sexy, many of us have found refuge in weight lifting. We have started to love our bodies for what they can accomplish and how WE feel about them, rather how many men they can attract. Whenever you post a photo of a nearly naked woman looking like she’s about to have sex, it is a stark reminder to me that even in the weight room, we are still objects to be admired, not equals.
The issue is not photos of glutes. The issue is the kinds of photos you post of women in positions that men would never be in. I have so much respect for you, but I will only believe that you have the same respect for me when you can tell the difference between these types of photos and choose to post the ones that make me feel inspired and proud to be a woman, not the ones that remind me that in the end, all that matters is how sexy I look.
^^^ Yes.
And I think the survey questions should have asked something more like this.
I like cohesive images in articles. If she/he is barely dressed, then she/he better be at the beach or getting ready for lovin. If she/he is getting ready to lift, then she/he should be in appropriate gym attire. The images should reflect the content of the piece and appeal to your demographic.
Love your work and will continue to read regardless of the images. The fact you ask your readers indicates a level of humility and thoughtfulness. Thank you for that as well!
The women who are complaining are the fatties who don’t want to lose weight. They want everyone to stop finding fit, sexy women attractive. This will not happen. you are the GLUTE guy, so yes please post pictures of what good glutes look like. Only insecure women are bothered by pictures of beautiful, fit women. Also, the ones who complain can always choose to NOT look. This is a fitness site, so I expect to see pictures of women that show off their physiques. Nothing surprising about this. Don’t let the whiners affect you!
Completely agree.
What is inspiration to one, is intimidating to another.
What is humor to one, is offensive to another.
What is art to one, is soft porn to another.
Everyone looks at the same picture yet there are an infinite number of reactions and responses to it.
You can never please everyone, Bret.
The only thing I want to see more of is male glutes. As much as I enjoy the musculature of the female glutes, I want to know what I am striving for – being I am the only male in my gym doing any kind of direct glute work. 😉
Keep up the good work Bret. I always get excited to read your new posts, as well as the gems of info in your previous ones. It’s a gold mine in here!
I have no problems with the pictures posted in this blog. Might I suggest posting pictures of glute development from both genders a bit more equally?
I’ve never been offended by any pictures in your blog; I’ll admit I have chuckled and rolled my eyes at a few of them though.
As many have stated I think it would be great to show more athletic poses and more real life transformations and a little less of the airbrushed sexy poses. A few men here and there would be great too!
Of the pictures you posted in this post the first and the last would be the most inspiring to me; and Kellie’s pictures in Strong Curves when she’s flipping the tire and on the cover; she looks dynamite and these are the types of images I like to see and what I aspire to work towards.
I love your blog and book and have learned a great deal from both. I’ve joined Get Glutes and love it so far. I’ll keep coming back whether or not you make any changes to the pictures you post.
It isn’t just the glutes. It’s disembodied body parts that disturb me in general. Show a whole woman (preferably a real athlete or an average person, and not just professional bikini models) and I find that inspiring. Before and after pix are especially motivating. But start cutting off heads or just showing one body part and it’s a little disturbing. It reduces the woman to just her parts and that’s not just demotivating.
Another way to think of it is…how often do you post a picture of just a male posterior? How about one in a thong? Or a professional photoshoot of a male? Or just in an attractive pose but not showing his head? Answer? You don’t.
Both men and women like looking at fine female forms. And I admit that it’s a fine line between enough eye candy and over-sexualizing in favor of male viewers. But when you cross that line, women feel just a little bit unwelcome. They might not even realize it…and neither will you until they don’t stop by the blog as often.
Sigh. I didn’t answer the survey because it’s a straw man argument. The question itself is designed to reinforce your current belief (you are just looking at great glutes!) and devalue the opinions of those who disagree (if you disagree, you want to stop looking at great glutes).
Should the glute guy stop posting great glute photos? You’d be crazy to say a glute guy can’t show glutes! And so the bro culture responds Amen.
If you listen closely, women are objecting to one style of glute photo in regular rotation on the blog. Take the real and regular presence of photoshopped, surgically enhanced ladies in come fuck me positions out. It’s not a healthy message, even if it is satisfying. It is the mental equivalent of eating McDonald’s every day.
I like progress pics. I like great glutes even when they aren’t accompanied by massive surgically enhanced breasts – this body type is never shown on this blog. And, sure, add more dudes. But, know it is impossible to sexualize dudes in the way women are.
Don’t be a Thomas Jefferson… Bret, you are too talented!
ITA!
Sharon and Molly have made some great points!
I’m not put-off by any of the photos myself (it’d take more than gratuitous sexy arse shots to keep meh from the latest glute research!), but I can see how they could contribute to a feeling for some that maybe this isn’t fully a place for women. Again, it’s the sexualised, bum-in-the-air, come-get-me-boys shots that jar and seem out of context, not the athletic or ordinary folk shots.
And we definitely could do with more of a female/male balance. As many have said before, it might help in choosing the photos. I mean, would you post a photo of Dmitry Klokov in a thong, waggling his butt cheeks at us? (And if you find such a photo, please tell me where! :P) There’s no shortage of great male glutes to choose from, weightlifters, sprinters, some powerlifters, they generally have excellent glute development. Funnily, I tend to be more inspired by great male glutes (as a woman), as I can see it’s mostly muscle development. Whereas a great woman’s backside could be a combination of muscle (from training) and a favourable collection of female fat (and it’s mostly genetic where that falls).
My vote goes for more glutes, especially man glutes.
Keep the pics of g,utes coming, but increase men’s glutes as opposed to women’s and less scantily clad glutes.
I would prefer you use a little less sexually posed women. The first and third pic are great…the middle one is a little over the top for me and with a husband and kids running around the house I prefer avoiding pics like those on my computer screen. More pics of real every day women would a great add to your site and more motivating to me as I will never be like the airbrushed models you pin up.
It’s not just a man-women divide, or even a women-women divide – it’s also an internal divide for many women.
I like the images and they don’t offend me in any immediate sense. But in some sense I know they are bad for me, like over indulgence in candy. It can also be hooking like candy.
The not-so-subtle message we women receive when being bombarded with over perfect images of women like the ones you embed is – ‘look girl. You’re not good enough. Compare yourself to this perfection and don’t stop feeling bad till you reach this goal.’
Of course you are not solely to blame and women get this message from all the other media outlets all the time. Actually it’s interesting because glute development is almost taking it one step further – not only do you have to be pretty (eternal expectation from women), thin (expectation from the last 100 years or so), muscular/toned (the last decade probably) – but also work specifically on developing a round and perky behind. So you can be pretty, thin, muscular and hot but have pathetic glutes – i.e. you are still not perfect.
This may all sound really negative, and that’s why I say it’s an internal divide – hey, I’m on GetGlutes! But I also have another side that objects.
Have you read The Beauty Myth by Naomi Wolf? It’d been on my list for years, and I’ve finally got it. I am reading through it slowly because it packs a punch. I think this would be a very interesting and thought provoking read for you (and I know you’re not afraid of thought provoking books)
Sorry for coming out holier than thou, but this really opened a can of worms for me, it’s something I am personally contemplating a lot lately.
Some of these responses are ridiculous. The photos here are far from soft porn. They are industry standard photos of attractive well shaped women that should inspire. I tend to agree with Sam. The real lesson to be learned here is not to cater to the weak and sensitive.
I do not think you’re trying to objectify women on your blog. And yes it is important to take a step back once in a while to get opinions but ignore the crazy ones.
Agree. Such ridiculous comments from some people.
I don’t find them offensive, but I’d certainly like to see male glutes more. 😛
I love your evidence-based content, enthusiasm, ideas, and writing. However as a married man I would like to be able to read all of this without seeing pictures of scantily clad models interspersed between the text. I work with athletes and general pops and I know that along with this industry comes the scrutinization of bodies and body parts, but I honestly I have stayed away from your blog out of respect for my wife. Most of the pictures you post are too provocative and out of place with the content that you produce. Before and after shots are one thing, but soft-core and pinup stuff is unprofessional in my opinion.
It’s your blog and your choice either way, but this is one reader who would like to see you keep your far-reaching influence without needing to sexualize your content.
I don’t find them offensive. I like looking at different glute pictures to sort of compare & contrast & see what I like & what I don’t, what I strive for, what’s feasible, what’s closer to my shape, etc. it’s inspirational so keep them. But what I do want to see more of is testimonial pictures. & I guess male glutes too.
Well…since you asked 😉 I love your site. I look at it multiple times a week to find answers to my questions when training my clients. I am the only trainer doing glute/hip bridges in my gym because of the work you have done with this blog. BUt….since you asked….when I read articles I have to be careful my 2 tweens are not around and sometimes I cover up the picture as I read. I agree with others….show us more real women and their glutes- like Marianne and Kellie. I am inspired by those pictures.
When all the folks in the pics you post stop allowing their pics to be taken and published, then you should stop posting the pics. If the owners of the glutes have no prob with the pics of their glutes, then I don’t.
Pervs don’t need your blog to perv out, and up tight Victorians don’t need to control everything.
You can show pictures of great glute development without making it sexualized.
Athletes and clients, wearing clothes, and at least 50% men please.
I read your blog and mostly like it a lot. I don’t care much for some science articles that I’d need a translator for, but you do of course have a lot of good advices about training. I started thrusting since I found your site. Now the pictures…turns me off. Show pics of glutes, but real people’s glutes. Men’s too. A model sticking her butt out in a thong is not at all inspiring to me. There are…ummm…other places online to watch those pics. Thanks for asking!
I don’t have a problem with the images you upload. I find the majority of them inspiring, and if my ass ever looks as fantastic as that of the woman in the second photo, then hell yeah! I’ll be taking pics of myself like that too!
I love your blog and Strong Curves has make such a positive impact on me and the way I train, in 6 weeks my glutes have transformed immensely…I even had I woman stop me in the gym yesterday to tell me she thinks I’m amazing….I felt like telling her to thank, YOU!
Anyway, keep up the great work because you, Kellie and Marianne are truly inspiring.
Oh and I’d be happy to check out some male glutes too 😀
woops, typo….I should’ve written “I will thank, YOU, for that”… 🙂
Hi Brett,
As a male who enjoys a genetically endowed hip extensor, I find most of the pictures you post rather enjoyable. From a strength & conditioning and educational purpose, they are also rather informative.
That being said, I think the criticism of women that you receive is fair, even if it is a result of misunderstanding. I have a feeling that it might be more well received by a female blog poster, but that’s irrelevant at this point. What is relevant is who your target audience/client is, and how your blog posts might be alienating half of them!
From what I can tell, based on the photos and testimonials that you post, your target audience and client is women. If constantly posting pictures of remarkable female glutes is offending approximately half of your potential clientele, then I think you need to *seriously* reconsider your approach to posting such images.
If you still want to post images (and please….don’t stop….for science), then perhaps it might be best to isolate these…data…to specific posts. You could have a weekly post dedicated to great glutes, which is titled as such, and perhaps even has a link back to this post for new readers who might find it distasteful.
Just a few thoughts. Keep up the awesome work!
I believe those pictures are beautiful and sexy, i actually find the first one the sexiest because its the union of great glutes and body with some awesome action. I will probably never reach near that level but i dont mind because i am confident of my own body and proud of the work i do. I love the fact that you have all kind of pictures on your blog and for me the more information i get the best! Keep the good work Bret.
Nice of you to ask! I answered your survey but also felt compelled to comment here.
I don´t think you should stop posting pictures of great glutes because let´s face it we are all looking for this ideal when we come to your blog.
Of course pictures of beautiful models with great glutes are much more inspirational than pictures of real women!
We are a beauty addicted society and beauty is inspirational!
That said, I also have to say that I really appreciate when you post success stories and before and after pictures which are really motivational.
I started your program 3 weeks ago and am hoping for great results… Right now I am just loosing weight and my butt looks a bit flabby…
Keep up the great work
Catarina
How many of those women in the pictures on your website actually have butt implants ? I’d bet many.
I love your blog and have seen great results using your programs. I really enjoy seeing the before and after shots and shots like #1 and #3 in this post. And I find the shots to be quite motivating. While I don’t necessarily have a problem with the photos like #2 (or those that have been referred to as “soft-core porn”), I would prefer less of them overall, mainly because they are usually photoshopped, so they aren’t actually depicting reality.
This poll got me thinking though. I have a pre-teen daughter who has recently become really interested in lifting. While I am happy to share blogs like Nia Shanks’, Kellie’s, Marianne’s, Girls Gone Strong, etc. with her, I would probbaly shy away from sharing your blog with her because of the “soft-core porn” photos. Again, not because I find them offensive, but because they aren’t really depicting reality. I want her to see strong, confident, intelligent women (who also happen to be sexy, but aren’t marketing their sexuality).
It’s the type of photo that is the problem.
Posting photos of strong, athletic men & women? Yes, absolutely!
But posting photos that objectify women and making comments that imply that their value is their sex appeal to men, rather than their health, fitness, and athletic goals as individuals – big no. It makes you look like a skeevy creep and takes away from the content.
Be professional.
I have no problem with the first picture. Beautiful. The second picture is getting a lot more sexually suggestive. The last picture is fine. Personally, I don’t like the hyper-sexualized “Reef Girls” type pictures.
I realize a lot of fitness pros get started on TNation and I understand TNation has its niche, but that is why I don’t go there. I am not that niche. But, I think you are trying for a broader market, and judging by the book you put out, probably more female than male. I don’t think I have ever heard any man at any time moan about their butt. Yeah, they moan about their biceps or pecs, but not their glutes like women do.
I have not told people about your website when I’m at my gym. The gym is in my neighborhood and I’m not directing people to a NSFW site. To uncomfortable for me. If you are fine with that, I respect your decision.
I have not found any picture by Marianne or Kellie or most of the pictures you post offensive. But, there are some others and it seems pretty obvious which ones. I would also vote for more real life success story type pictures. These are incredibly motivating since they seem less likely a lucky draw in the gene pool, less likely photoshopped, and offer real evidence that your methods work. There was one a little while back of a girl who was a bridesmaid, and I was like, “Wow, gotta get hip thrusting!” A woman in barely a string, posed in a highly suggestive manner, not at all.
Again, I respect whatever decision you make, but will say I tend to support the more professional sites of fitness pros rather than the TNation thing. Its kind of like going to Buffalo Wild Wings versus the Tilted Kilt, if that analogy works.
For fitness blogs and sites of all types, there’s always the question of objectification; for you, since you focus on glutes, it’s a question of “Is this a picture of a person with great glutes or a picture of great glutes?” The first I find awesome and motivational, the second often feels work-inappropriate and a bit icky.
By my own personal standards, the majority of pictures I’ve seen on your blog (and all three above) are pictures of people, not just pictures of glutes. What makes the difference for me?
– It’s a whole person, not a body chunk. The latter shows up a lot in both porn and in athlete pictures, and it’s objectifying. All three in the post are depicted as whole people.
– The subject is doing something, which makes them more real and less an art object/sculpture/thing to be consumed. The first and second pictures, particularly the first, are of somebody doing something: jumping and posing, respectively. Some people would argue with me about the middle picture, I’m sure. To me, a body-building pose, like a yoga pose, is active and is about fitness at least as much as it’s about looking good.
– There are few to no overtly sexual indicators (lingerie or lingerie-like clothing, “bedroom eyes,” posing that strongly resembles a sexual position or is designed to emphasize sexual attributes). I’ll admit, this one is pretty fuzzy and will vary from person to person. Some people would argue that the thong in the second picture is too much. For me, it reads as being for the purpose of showing off the glute margin rather than simply for having a bare ass. She isn’t making bedroom eyes at the camera. She’s flexing to show off her muscles instead of doing the T-and-A twist to show off her breasts. It’s all about her muscle development.
That’s my three cents on the matter, as it were. If it were my blog, I’d have absolutely no hesitation about putting action shots like the first in any post. I would probably put the second shot “below the fold,” as some people wouldn’t want to have that show up on their monitor at work. I think the third photo is fine, as it doesn’t read as a creeper shot to me (I don’t know if other people would feel differently).
Thanks for the blog, and I’m glad that you’re open to feedback and responsive to your readers.
I really like what you do and hope you read each comment carefully. I have been reading your blog for years and think you are the real deal, I purchased strong curves and like the program because of that. I don’t mind the pics when they are inspirational but not when they are sexy and models to be honest. Now you are sending me mixed messages that its ok to be strong but you think women should look a certain way (by posting the sexy model pics, talking about how hot certain women are and posting pics of your gf in a swimsuit). It is your blog and I love what you do but not who you portray yourself as (I am not saying that’s the real you). This combined with the fact that you got so many people to review your book when it first came out and there are so many untrue amazon reviews because of the contest before they had time to actually try the program out has made me seriously think about stopping reading your blog. I know why you did this (please the publisher and get good reviews) but it makes me think I really don’t know the kind of person you are. I am sorry to say this but I think you are good with criticism and you asked so I am telling you. I hope you change how you come across because I don’t think women respond well to it. And some pics of both sexes would be nice. At the same time I bought your book because I like you so alls not lost!
I think your poll kinda dodges the issues here. Is it a problem putting pics of glutes up on the site? No. But none of your pics are JUST pics of well developed glutes, they are sexualised images of women, and the site is smothered in them – its like a teenage boys bedroom wall in here! And if you were JUST interested in well developed glutes, and not soft porn, then there would be pics of guys on here as well.
The other issue is one of tone. I come here for your thoughtful and well researched articles, and the pics just seem out of place in that context.
I like to see good glute development, but I’ve got a good question for you to ask yourself. Would you find a photo of a man (or group of men or boys) in a similar amount of clothing/position uncomfortable or unsettling to look at? How about finding a very similar photo of a male to match each of your photos of females? I agree with Cameron’s sentiments entirely. I’m not a boy looking to feed his arousal, I’m a person who wants to be educated and inspired. If something is tasteful, you should be able to envision a male in a similar pose/outfit/attitude. If you can’t, it’s probably because you are slipping into soft porn land again.
Exactly!! Well put.
I think to be taken seriously you are going to have to post pictures that show powerful glutes in action or in some kind of pose that isn’t with a provocative stance: ie: a woman pouting with her back arched and intentionally tilting her pelvis (anterior tilt!). It’s just objectification of the female body 101. It’s just more respectful and elegant to make your point with natural postures or active ones, like for say a sprinter in start position, a woman like Venus or Serena Williams playing tennis, or any top athlete in a naturally beautiful, candid, and powerful posture. I personally find figure competitions a little weird and I could see women getting a little obsessive about how they “look” instead of how they “feel” or what their performance is like. It’s not my thing, I like extreme snowboarding and dressage. Those two sports require a lot of clothing and are hardly mainstream to the point where men would hang out just to look at women’s glutes.
Bottom line is to be taken seriously you’re going to have to rise above the sexualized and objectifying pictures and error on the side of not offending anyone. I think portraying strong, talented, and confident women is more appealing and I don’t have to give my friend’s a disclaimer about the photos when I refer them to your blog.I think some of the photos most mature, intelligent, educated, empowered women would find distasteful. There are a lot of people who can be cavalier and nonchalant about the effect the photos have, but they are probably not deep thinkers or very thoughtful about a lot of things. I think you have to decide if it’s worth offending anyone or if you should make the site more palatable so that you reach the wider audience you want to.
1. The photos are one of my favorite things about your blog. Not just because I find them inspiring, but because they speak to how genuine you are. You like the pictures. You think other people will like the pictures. So you post the pictures. You’re not trying to be something your not, and it’s not some sort of contrived marketing scheme, you’re just doing your thing (at least, that’s how I’ve always interpreted it).
2. I also like the pictures because it shows that you don’t take yourself too seriously.
3. I love that you decided to chose to address this issue by collecting data to support your decision. Always the science geek!
4. The last picture might be my favorite yet . IMO that is the perfect as* and I will continue to work toward that to the extent that my genetics will allow. See… Inspiration!!
Aloha Brother!
I’d say you don’t need them in order to generate the revenue or credibility. They may inspire some, but I think that most people seeking help are fairly self-motivated. Definitely the “sexed” up pics you could lose. But the pic of the vaulter or sprinter in a uniform is good and different from a fitness model posing in her profession. And you can make your visual point without the arched back sexy look. Yes we are all grown ups, and having said that we don’t need a certain type of picture to motivate us to workout.
I’m a guy and I love the pics, please keep them. When I’m on a website and I see a shredded, ripped guy in great shape, it always makes me pumped up and makes me put a little more energy into my diet or workout.
Just have to add, I love the work you do, I have Strong Curves, am doing the hip thrust challenge, was a part of Get Glutes (had to postpone that membership for awhile due to finances) and think you have a lot to impart. I love the way Strong Curves has changed my figure.
But, if anyone else starts presenting the same material in a more professional manner, I will be much more likely to go there. Not that I would never come by every once in awhile, but I would just prefer my fitness without those kind of pictures.
And, BTW, the 3 pictures here are tame compared to some you have posted in the past, for example a couple that illustrated the 30 day hip thrust challenge were definitely in that category and not even the 2nd picture you posted has that look, since it looks a lot more artistic and not purely sex.
I know some get rankled by so called “Victorian attitudes,” prudes or whatever derogatory name they want to call me but if people want to look at the sexy poses, everyone knows you can find your fill and then some on the ‘net. Its not like those kind of images are going to run out any time soon. However, quality, useful fitness info is a whole ‘nother story and not as common.
If your posting the pics to gain ‘net traffic, then I think it will hurt you in the long run because it is not really very professional. You might want to consult with an image firm or pr firm or some of the other fitness pros that project professional, useful info.
Also, add me in as one who would never direct either of my daughters to the site (still too young at this point although hopefully embracing a strong lifestyle in the future), but would get them the Strong Curves book when they are older because it was well done and professional.
Wow! We have become a society that is ashamed of our bodies! Anyone who has a problem with the pics on your site should also never go to a art gallery and look at great art! Relax people!
As a 30+ year workout woman, I used to find these motivational. I have no issues if you want to show them but honestly, only the ones that put 110% into food & exercise get there & those with great genes. I am very dedicated & have been thru my years if you look at so many of my fit at 55 IG posts.. BUT I have to work super hard, do not have those lean genes & all.. I do think for a lot of women, it can be discouraging as they really will not get there unless they want to put all their time & effort into this – just IMHO form all my years at this.. For those that want balance in life – those pics can be very ver y hard to get o – I am not a trainer but have been living this for over 30 years…
I think this is part of it too, maybe a little bit of variety in body type would help 🙂
I have 1 minor complaint- I like to visit your site during lunch, and I sometimes worry some pictures are NSFW.
That said, why would you self censor? This is your site. Tell the femi-nazis to like it or GTFO!
Since your site is about glute development then you should keep up with the pics of great glutes as inspiration mate. If you want any suggestions though then I agree with a few of the other posts above that maybe mix it up a bit and put more guys in the mix and show good their glutes can get with your advice.
I agree with many of the comments that suggest that more men should be shown in the photos. I say this not because I think it will appease the women who oppose the “suggestive” photos, but I think that it will make the blog more appealing overall to both sexes. When I look at pictures of Arnold or Ronnie or whoever, I want to know what muscle is supposed to look like. Do I or will I get depressed if I don’t achieve their stature? Hell no! When I read the articles here, I expect some science. When I see a picture it better be good. C’mon, too many people here getting their butt hurt over pictures when they should be getting it hurt doing hip thrusts.
Still laughing at Estefania’s post!
If featuring more “Blokes’-gluteus-in-athetic-action” is gonna help as “eye candy” for some of your readers, well, bring them on to keep the vast majority happy. Truly, it is not a big deal. I reckon the high quality of your site shouldn’t be questioned by the intolerance coming from those few snobs that might remain standing.
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I don’t mind them – especially within the context of you being “the glute guy”. I can see how they could be taken offense to however, but I don’t think the audience you are trying to reach is necessarily the audience being offended. I think that you do a good job of keeping the pics to an appropriate number for each article and the models are always super fit which is something I find motivating. So long as there isn’t some bumper-sticker ideology mantra printed across the picture, I say keep em. And I am a lady.
The Conversation about women’s bodies exists largely outside of us, while it is also directed at (and marketed to) us, and used to define and control us. The Conversation about women happens everywhere, publicly and privately. We are described and detailed, our faces and bodies analyzed and picked apart, our worth ascertained and ascribed based on the reduction of personhood to simple physical objectification. Our voices, our personhood, our potential, and our accomplishments are regularly minimized and muted.
That women are joining in the ongoing disassembling of my appearance is salient. Patriarchy is not men. Patriarchy is a system in which both women and men participate. It privileges, inter alia, the interests of boys and men over the bodily integrity, autonomy, and dignity of girls and women. It is subtle, insidious, and never more dangerous than when women passionately deny that they themselves are engaging in it. This abnormal obsession with women’s faces and bodies has become so normal that we (I include myself at times—I absolutely fall for it still) have internalized patriarchy almost seamlessly. We are unable at times to identify ourselves as our own denigrating abusers, or as abusing other girls and women.”
Plenty of big words and good effort, but you didn’t answer the question??
Love action and/or natural stance and/or women squatting or DLing weight, etc. And don’t forget clothed can be super sexy every once in a while! But cringe at the posed with anterior tilt/arched lumbar. Those do nothing for me, except I guess make me cringe and worry about reading the blog while on a break at work.
Yeah, that’s another thing. I like to browse this blog on my breaks! NSFW content makes me nervous about that.
It is YOUR blog. Post whatever pictures you think fit your content and message.
If people don’t like it, they don’t have to visit YOUR website.
Im female… I want great glutes! looking at great glutes REALLY motivates me! your the glute guy….. its expected that we see the glutes, and great ones at that on your blog (as well as some sorry ones too)
Your blog your pictures and your passion inspires me to aquire my own set of great glutes and you can bet when I finally achieve this I will be posting pictures of my fabulous bottom all over the web 😉
Bret you are the Glute GOD thank you!
Keep it up, those who dont like looking then dont look! get a grip n stop complaining! Get a life you sad F#@×$
Bret, I say keep doing what you are doing man. The body is something to be proud of and seeing great bodies motivates us to become better.
I love your blog and say stay true to yourself. Your fans will find you, and the other folks will still sneak on your site when nobody’s looking to check out the glutes and great articles! hahaha!
Jay Scott
I don’t find the pictures offensive, but it does make it harder to read your articles in public. This isn’t just you; it’s a general problem when I read fitness articles, particularly ones geared towards lower body work/ women. It’s also a problem when I watch Archer in public but I digress.
I do like the cookie idea that someone suggested or just having articles specifically for glute shots, so I can just not open that one when I’m at school/work. I also like the idea of more “fitness” shots. They come across as less sketchy than the underwear shots even if the same/similar amounts of skin are showing.
It’s your site, so do whatever you want, but if it were my business, I would probably post the 1st and the 3rd shot, but think twice about the second one. I don’t think you’ll lose any customers by not posting it, but you would lose some by posting it.
This isn’t towards you- it’s towards (some of) the other commentators. I don’t understand the need to attack/insult those who disagree with you. If you can’t make an argument using logic and can only use petty insults, maybe you’re not as smart as you think you are and maybe your not seeing the whole picture.
Hey Bret,
Thanks for being sensitive enough to even ask this question and take a vote. : )
Come on people, seriously? Why are glute muscles any different than any other muscle in the human anatomy? A well-developed muscle (no matter which one it is) should be looked upon as merely that – a thing of beauty to be admired.
Bret
Look here, you are not Obama who made dumb statements and decisions.
You are a professional and provide an invaluable service. Does a lawyer ask the client how to fight the case? Does a doctor ask the patient what medicine should be given?
The world today is all about political correctness and many people pretend to be humble and considerate to disguise a failure to take responsibility. it would be sad indeed if you joined them. Not everyone would like you, and you cannot please everyone, nor should you even try.
Your job is to do your job. I am saddened that you even ask. If you felt that some may misunderstand and be offended, maybe you could have explained your position. But do you need to ask permission to do the great job you are doing?
martin
I don’t mind seeing great glutes but please consider that you have female followers as well. You could select pics that are of great glutes without the pics being of just an almost naked woman’s ass.
If you select pics of provocative women, maybe once in awhile throw in a few really great men pics.
Or just stick to pics with clothes on.
It’s a fine line. I enjoy the pictures, but I do agree that it gets a bit… uncomfortable at times? Not necessarily inappropriate, but maybe tone down on the *purely* sexual pictures and keep to ones that are more athletic.
Not that they can’t be *sexy*, of course, but there is, for instance, pictures of Jessica Biel playing tennis on the beach in a glorious bikini and then there’s pictures of her in a doggy style position on a lawn chair. One feels more relevant and less voyeuristic than others. 😉
Also, dude, pictures of male glutes! Don’t forget about those! And not just ones of really swole bros and bodybuilders –more conventionally attractive dudes with nice glutes.
I know that’s not your forte as a straight man (and I totally understand you’d get annoying comments for it), but every damn day I hear dudes go “I’m gonna work out, just wanna build some upper body strength” and I hang my head. Nobody realizes how hot nice glutes/legs are on dudes!! I have never met a woman who disagreed with me on this.
It will also lower the controversy if it’s more equal opportunity 😉 Just a thought!
Please keep posting pictures of nice glutes! I find them motivating and well, nice to look at. I’m female btw and would enjoy looking at nice glutes on anybody, male or female.
Hi Bret,
I always enjoy your articles with a scientific approach to training as, like you, I’m working on my dissertation. As an educational psychologist, of course I have an opinion on including photos in your posts. 🙂 Visual stimuli, as opposed to textual, have a very visceral effect on people. You’ve found that out with some people liking the photos and some not.
The photos you use tend to be women who already have great glute development, so good or bad, there is a bias. This can generate jealousy as well as distaste in some women. If you include photos of men with great glute development, you will lessen the perceived bias, even though, as you state, you love great female glutes. Women will understand that, but you won’t dissuade those who still find the photos in poor taste.
Adding photos of more typical people would help with the bias issue, but the “distasteful” photos will still strike some negatively, and that seems to be the crux of the problem. That being said, adding in the men and more “regular” people could help dilute the effect of the constant stream of scantily-clad women. You might also present your articles in two formats: one with text only, the other with photos included. Also, maybe you could have the pages load without the photos loading and have a button on top that people could click to load them.
Bret, with your public image, you’ve just hit one of the many snags of political correctness that my field of psychology is so involved with. Thanks for putting this out to your subscribers. You’re obviously concerned with taking into consideration everyone’s feelings. You just have to try to maximize your positive effects on people knowing that no one can satisfy everyone all of the time. Keep up the good work!
(And thanks for posting the Robbie Robinson article. When I was an undergraduate decades ago, I had his picture tacked up on my dorm wall along with those of Frank Zane and Arnold. He was a talented sprinter and bodybuilder, and I always thought he should have beaten Arnold at the Olympia!)
It’s pretty cool that you’re addressing this and making an attempt to please more readers. Awesome.
That being said, it is still your blog and still in your complete control. The suggestions are all good (including men, use more real-world examples, etc.) and would definitely help the overall experience, but to say that anything on your blog is “soft-porny” is silly.
You put out insightful and reliable information on a near daily basis about all things strength and conditioning, with a heavy emphasis on glute training. I come to your site ready to read information about S&C that emphasizes glute training. When I see the pictures, I don’t consider them to be sexual because the blog is not sexual. They’re attractive women, they’re motivating to look at and they always have nicely developed glutes, which helps illustrate the entire point of the freakin’ blog, TO HELP YOU GET A GREAT ASS.
Why not feature all shapes and sizes of both men and women? Maybe diversifying the pictures would add some balance.
The blog is still going to be excellent either way!
You can’t make everybody happy.
It’s like, some people will completely disregard information from a very good writer, if the person uses profanity… that means that you can’t be natural, you can’t be ‘you’ as an author, because you have to censor yourself.
I’d rather lose that traffic from overly-sensitive people than feeling forced to change my personality.
For me, the glutes is one of the most fascinating parts of the human anatomy, and I enjoy looking at beautifully sculpted butts, but I don’t come to this blog to jerk off, and I seriously doubt other men are doing that.
The pictures on this site are examples of what is possible with the human body, I don’t see how that could at all be irrelevant on a website that is build around getting stronger, sexier, healthier looking glutes.
The pictures are pure motivation and inspiration for me, and that’s how people should see it, not as a “haha you’re inferior, look at these asses!”.
One thing though, it’s pretty apparent that your main appeal is women, even though lots of men are obviously taking your advice as well, you could balance things out by displaying examples of men with great glute development too.
But guess what, a (small) part of your male readers would probably not like that, and here we go again with the sensitivity issues, you can’t appeal so broad that everybody loves you, and that’s just how it is.
I agree whole-heartedly!
You could introduce some kind of filter instead where it will not display images if you request it that way. That way both parties can get the information and those who like the pictures can see them.
Bret, I think it’s great that you are willing to hear your readers’ opinions, however your survey leaves a bit to be desired, IMO. YES, I want to see pictures of great glutes, but, NO, I do not want to see them in provocative poses (butts up in sexual positions, to be direct). That was not one of your options. I would re-work the survey to get an accurate analysis. I almost didn’t answer because the survey questions are skewed. That’s why I’m also adding a comment.
Love reading your articles Bret – thanks! I’m slightly offended but also really motivated by your pics depending on the pic. I find your photos of athletic women in action, such as the athlete pole vaulting, incredibly motivational. I don’t care for those that look like photos right out of a Victoria’s Secret catalog (except with more muscle). I was reading one of your articles at work and my accountant came up behind me right as I had scrolled down in the article exposing a picture of a woman in lacy lingerie. I don’t remember what the model’s glutes looked like just that she was in skimpy lacy black underwear and that my co-worker was convinced I was looking at porn…I know, I know, I shouldn’t have been reading about glutes at work BUT…!
I mean, it’s pretty straight forward to me.
A: Post men and women. If you are the glute guy, let’s do equal rights for all glutes.
B: The photos of athletic women in action. AWESOME. The photoshopped ass-shots of a woman arching her back in the most unnatural way? Uhm, probably not the way I would go. That is your taste, sure, but if you claim to be a blog focused on fitness and glute development, then keep it to photos that are about those areas, no? Otherwise it’s just a ass-shot of a hot woman in my opinion.
C: If people don’t like it though, they don’t have to come to your blog and read it and then complain about it. There are many comments here that state that they feel some photos aren’t not safe to be viewed at work…..so….if you have that, then it’s probably not a great photo to use.
You asked the question. I get the criticism. Society is so used to women being objectified over and over….show equal time for men’s glutes……or….people just go and get their info somewhere else, which is what I do, because I don’t need to see an artsy photo that is photoshopped and staged to see a hot woman in action.
C:
I all the time emailed this weblog post page to all my
contacts, for the reason that if like to read it next my contacts will too.
I’m not personally offended, but I just wanted to say that if there is an overwhelming vote for no, I wouldn’t say that it’s because ALL of your pictures are bad. For example, the pole vaulting picture I definitely don’t mind, and I don’t think the last photo with the model in the mirror is all that bad. However, if people are objecting to your photo posting, it’s mostly likely because of pictures such as the one the middle of your post.
So basically, I think that people who are complaining about the pictures aren’t necessarily objecting to all the pictures that you post…it’s just the more sexual ones that they probably feel uncomfortable with.
It doesn’t have to be an all or nothing thing for your blog, and I felt as if the poll options were a little too extreme in either direction.
Perhaps this has already been discussed:
Is it possible to have an option before entering the site that would turn off all images? For those butt bashful folks out there this might help them sort through the info without being traumatized by images that are morally conflicting for them. I know there are those out there who would argue that they do in fact want to see glute pictures but just in a less provocative light, but how do you know what each individual is comfortable with? You can’t please everyone. I personally am very motivated by the sexy glute pictures and less so by the more athletic looking ones. However, if I wanted to share an article with my pastor about how proper glute development can increase athletic performance I’d have to copy paste it and send it in an email, lol