Core Perspective - The aesthetic trend is shifting from "thin and slim" to "powerful thighs," gaining popularity on social media platforms like Xiaohongshu and Douyin, where muscular and well-defined legs are increasingly appreciated [1][10][24]. Group 1: Social Media Influence - Fitness influencers are promoting the idea that "thin legs" signify inadequate fitness, with many showcasing strong leg muscles as a symbol of dedication [3][10]. - The rise of fitness culture has led to a growing preference for muscular legs among both men and women, contrasting with traditional beauty standards [10][22]. Group 2: Fitness and Training - Effective lower body training, such as squats and deadlifts, is essential for developing strong thighs and glutes, as these exercises engage multiple muscle groups [6][19]. - The misconception that leg training leads to bulky muscles is being challenged; proper training can sculpt and define leg muscles without excessive bulk [25][32]. Group 3: Gender Differences in Aesthetic Preferences - Men typically desire "thicker legs" due to their natural body composition, while women, often facing societal pressure regarding leg size, are beginning to embrace muscular legs as a sign of strength [11][20]. - The evolution of fitness culture is helping women overcome the anxiety associated with "thick legs," promoting a more confident self-image [22][24]. Group 4: Health Implications - Research indicates that excessively thin legs are associated with health risks, suggesting that a focus on strength and muscle development is not only aesthetically pleasing but also healthier [24].

Core Viewpoint - The issue of muscle atrophy, previously associated mainly with the elderly, is increasingly affecting younger populations, particularly young women, due to lifestyle choices and societal beauty standards [1][10][12]. Summary by Sections Muscle Atrophy Trends - Muscle atrophy, or sarcopenia, is a progressive loss of skeletal muscle quality and strength, traditionally seen in older adults, but is now emerging in younger women, starting as early as age 35 [10][22]. - The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that approximately one-third of adults globally, around 1.8 billion, are insufficiently active, with a higher proportion of women [1][7]. Factors Contributing to Muscle Loss - Many individuals begin to lose 3% to 5% of lean muscle mass every decade after age 30, with women experiencing this loss earlier and more significantly due to lower baseline muscle mass compared to men [3][10]. - Young women often engage in low-frequency exercise, such as yoga and Pilates, which may not provide sufficient stimulus for muscle growth, leading to rapid declines in muscle strength and endurance when exercise is halted [6][19]. Societal Influences and Beauty Standards - The prevailing beauty standards that favor thinness contribute to a lack of focus on muscle health among young women, who may prioritize weight loss over muscle maintenance [12][15]. - The marketing of health products often emphasizes weight loss rather than muscle gain, further perpetuating the issue [12][13]. Symptoms and Health Implications - Symptoms of muscle loss in young women may be subtle, including mild muscle weakness and increased fatigue, while older women exhibit more pronounced symptoms such as significant muscle weakness and mobility issues [25][22]. - The lack of resistance training and poor nutritional habits, such as insufficient protein intake, exacerbate the risk of developing sarcopenia [19][29]. Recommendations for Prevention - To combat muscle loss, it is recommended that young women engage in resistance training 2-3 times a week, alongside a balanced diet rich in protein and essential nutrients [28][29]. - Incorporating simple exercises and ensuring adequate nutritional intake can help maintain muscle mass and overall health [29][30].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the extreme dieting culture among Japanese women, highlighting the societal pressures and unhealthy behaviors that lead to widespread eating disorders and low body weight [6][7][40]. Group 1: Dieting Culture in Japan - A recent warning from a Japanese association indicates that one in five young women in Japan is underweight [6]. - Many women suffer from malnutrition and frequent medical visits, negatively impacting the national health index [7]. - The Japanese government has attempted to encourage women to eat more, but these efforts have had little effect [8]. Group 2: Societal Pressures and Body Image - The dieting mentality begins in middle school, where BMI standards are included in educational materials, leading to body comparisons among students [17]. - High school girls often share lunches to control calorie intake, and there is a culture of body shaming for those who are slightly overweight [20][21]. - Adult women face even greater pressure, with societal expectations dictating that they must maintain a slim appearance [24]. Group 3: Eating Habits and Food Choices - Japanese women often resort to extreme dieting methods, including low-calorie convenience foods and the use of laxatives and diuretics [27]. - Typical meals for women are extremely small, with some only consuming a quarter of a tofu block as a meal [35]. - The societal stigma around eating certain foods, like beef bowls and ramen, leads women to avoid dining in public settings [40][41]. Group 4: Gender Norms and Expectations - The concept of "女子力" (women's power) in Japan creates unrealistic expectations for women to be both physically appealing and submissive [53][56]. - Women often feel pressured to conform to beauty standards, leading to behaviors such as height misreporting and extreme dieting [60][72]. - The societal focus on appearance extends to professional settings, where women are expected to wear makeup and adhere to strict dress codes [66]. Group 5: Conclusion and Reflection - The article emphasizes the absurdity and tragedy of the dieting culture in Japan, rooted in deep-seated gender biases and societal norms [50][76]. - It advocates for breaking free from these harmful standards and encourages women to embrace their bodies without the pressure to conform to societal expectations [78].