Relationship experts suggest that people with similar interests often connect, including men who lead active lifestyles. A two-year-old video recently gained attention, leading to a discussion about the type of women that men interested in fitness prefer. The video, which has 4.7 million views, features a female influencer with her male partner and attracted negative comments labeling her as “overweight” and “ugly.”
On November 2, 2026, a social media user reposted the video and asked a question about what men who exercise look for in a partner. The clip showed influencer Cat Weiss and her partner preparing together, showcasing her curves alongside his muscular physique. In her caption, Weiss mentioned that some viewers might react strongly to the video.
Some viewers responded unfavorably, expressing that they found the pairing unpleasant. However, a few defended the couple, suggesting that those who were upset were the ones with the problem.
As the video continued to circulate, more comments and theories emerged regarding body size in relationships. Some dismissed the initial question, while others speculated about body image issues affecting both individuals. Some responses suggested that bodybuilders may not be superficial and appreciate their partners for who they are, while others noted that bodybuilders might prefer dating those who don’t compete with them in the gym.
Weiss later commented that the video had been shared two and a half years prior and that she would not be engaging with the comments.
Research on dating preferences suggests that men who frequently exercise may value an active partner but do not always seek women with highly toned bodies. A study published in 2009 in the journal Sex Roles analyzed 5,810 dating profiles of heterosexual men in the U.S. Among the men with body-type preferences, a significant percentage liked thin or thin-and-toned women. However, only a small portion exclusively preferred those body types, showing that many were open to different physiques.
Additionally, a survey by Zoosk, which included over 7,000 members, found that a large percentage of online daters deemed regular exercise important in a partner. This number increased among those who exercised three or more times a week, indicating a value placed on having an active partner.
A study conducted by the dating app Hily found that many respondents showed preferences related to fitness in their dating choices.
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Source: Bored Panda, by Analice Couto