The Shape Story Articles
Deep dives into the science of body composition, nutrition, and the cultural narratives that shape our understanding
Featured Articles
Understanding Body Composition Basics
Explore the scientific foundations of how bodies are structured. Learn about fat, muscle, bone, and water components, and understand how their proportions create the diversity of human body shapes.
Read the Full Article →Patterns of Fat Distribution
Discover how physiological factors, particularly hormones, influence where body fat is stored and mobilized. Understand the normal variation in fat distribution patterns across individuals.
Read the Full Article →Muscle Tissue and Energy Use
Learn about the metabolic role of lean muscle tissue and its influence on basal metabolic rate. Understand how physical activity and nutrition support muscle maintenance and development.
Read the Full Article →Genetic Influences on Shape
Understand how inherited factors establish the potential range of body shape diversity. Explore the interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors across the lifespan.
Read the Full Article →Hormones and Body Form
Explore how hormonal regulators influence fat distribution, muscle development, metabolic rate, and overall body composition. Learn about hormonal changes across different life stages.
Read the Full Article →Cultural Stories of Body Shape in the UK
Examine the historical evolution and contemporary state of body image narratives in the United Kingdom. Understand how cultural factors influence body perception and self-image.
Read the Full Article →Discover the Science
Each article provides evidence-based information about body composition, physiology, and the cultural contexts that shape our understanding of body narratives.