Why do Filipino have big calves? This article debunks some of the myths about Filipino’s big calves. It is essential for people who are trying to lose weight to understand what causes their big calves and how they can get rid of them. Or even better, gain them. Everything you need to know about the Filipino’s secret is here!
Not just Filipinos, people notice that many Asians have naturally big calves without training as well. Even though there hasn’t been any study that dives deeply into the topic, most Asian people have the body proportion of a long back and shorter legs. The muscle mass in the calves is bulky due to the high consumption of carbohydrates, which we can easily find in rice, a must-have ration in any meal in Asia.
Filipino Calves
Let’s debunk the myth of Filipino calves with us here!
Do Filipinos have big calves?
A recent study showed that Filipinos have the highest percentage of bodybuilders in the world, with more than 8 million people currently involved in the fitness industry. In fact, a survey by the Philippine Sports Commission showed that Filipinos are the largest group of bodybuilders in the world—more than twice the number of Americans, who were second.
If there are so many bodybuilders, is it because they can build muscle easily or already have big muscle mass? Maybe yes, maybe no. But it’s logical to say that not all Filipinos have big calves and not all that participate in bodybuilding are due to their naturally big calves. The statement that they have naturally impressive leg muscles is purely subjective.
Why do Filipinos have big calves?
Due to Filipinos, and most Asians, genetic body proportion with long back and short legs, the muscle mass on the calves appears to be bigger in people that fall into the group of those with ideal or high BMI index.
They may have big calves because of their rice-eating lifestyle, which is also rich in carbohydrates, essential for muscle building. This, combined with a lot of walking or exercise, can develop the growth of the calves muscles. The same applies to anyone or any bodybuilder around the globe, not just Filipinos.
Filipino calf genetics
While there is no clear evidence, it is commonly acknowledged that genetics is the primary cause of large calves in Filipinos. Many people report having calves the same size as their family members. Furthermore, some claim that their elders have large calves despite not going to the gym or frequently exercising to develop this body part.
Why Are Manny Pacquiao Calves So Big?
Boxing fans can’t divert their look from Manny Pacquiao’s impressive calves.
How does Pacquiao have big calves?
Pacquiao is a boxer. Boxing is a sport in which you are required to move your legs very swiftly to dodge and blow a devastating punch. Also, professionals must train him frequently to upgrade his fighting skill.
Furthermore, Pacquiao claims to run 10 miles every morning, perform 2,000 sit-ups daily, consume 7,000 calories daily, and train for eight weeks nonstop before matches. All these exercises contribute highly to Manny’s muscular legs.
How do you get Manny Pacquiao’s calves?
- Eat right: There is scientific evidence supporting that a protein-rich diet will help you build muscle. A protein-rich diet is high in carbs, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and beans.
- Get a massage: Getting a massage is a great way to relax and reduce stress. The massage can also help you improve your circulation, which can help you build more muscle.
- Stretch: You can stretch your calf muscles by lying down on your back with your feet flat on the floor and your heels close to your buttocks. Hold the heel of your foot with your hand, then slowly lift your leg until your calf is fully stretched.
- Do cardio: Cardio is important to build muscle. Running, jogging, or walking is the best form of cardio for building muscle.
Why Do Asians Have Massive Calves?
Most of us know that Asians have naturally big calves, but what is the reason behind it? Let’s find out.
Is having big calves genetic?
Yes, having big calves can be due to genetics. If many of your family members have big calves, it will be natural that you have muscular legs like them. Many have spotted their parents or siblings with impressive leg muscles just like theirs. Not every family member can share the same lifestyle with the same exercise routine. So the coincidence is too random to cross out the possibility of genetics playing a role in generational muscular calves.
What are the benefits of big calves?
With each stride, your calf muscles move you ahead, absorb stress with each hit, and aid the rest of your upper body. The benefits of big and strong calves are:
- Improve your speed
- Be able to run for extended periods of time
- Maintain a more steady jogging speed
Are Big Calves Unattractive?
There is only one way to answer it: It depends on each person’s taste. But overall, many forums have been discussing this matter, and people have been giving their pieces of thought. Most of the results that we find show that 90% of people think that naturally big calves are attractive for women and that worked-out legs are a good image for men.
How To Get Big Calves At Home
Check out this video if you are trying to gain more leg muscles!
FAQs
Are calves important for boxing?
Stronger calves improve agility and athleticism when running, leaping, or moving your feet. This is especially crucial in boxing, where there is a lot of mobility. Develop your calves to the point where they are tight and firm, but avoid trying to gain volume.
How much of calf size is genetic?
There hasn’t been any solid study on the matter, but there is a connection between big calves and genetics.
Are bigger calves better?
Those with larger calves had less tissue known as plaques accumulated in their arteries, regardless of age, gender, BMI, or other vascular risk factors. This means they are less likely to develop stenosis, vascular diseases, or have a stroke.
I’m Renee L. Bazile, and I’m passionate about health and fitness. Keeping fit and active has always been a passion of mine.
I graduated from Nova Southeastern University with a degree in Exercise Science. I believe being healthy and fit is the key to a happy and successful life.
Over the past ten years, I have trained more than 10.000 clients in the fitness industry. My goal is to help others achieve their fitness goals. The saying goes, “If you don’t use it, you lose it.” Therefore, we all need to exercise regularly to maintain health and fitness.
In 2019, I became an expert on health & fitness topics for ThisIsGuernsey after starting my blog about health & fitness. I relax and rebalance my life by walking, fishing, and blogging in my free time.