From Bradley, Child's Age 11 - 10/28/23 - IP#: 1.145.46.xxx Click here to reply
My son is 11. He's average height, broad built and only slightly stocky. However his butt and thighs are huge. It's like any excess fat goes straight to that big, wide ass of his. We've had to buy plus-size pants now and I'm concerned this could be a precursor to future weight gain.
Reply from Bradley, Child's Age 11 - 10/29/23 - IP#: 203.189.85.xxx Of course I want him to feel comfortable and would never try to look like I'm making a big deal out of it. In terms of how he feels, he's told me he he's embarrassed mainly because other boys have teased him about it. He does enjoy sports and is actually really good at soccer despite not having the agility of some. He'd look like a strongman type physique if it weren't for that big butt. He refuses to wear men's pants because they're too long in the legs. Husky sizes barely fit and he insists on wearing stretchy shorts that are simply too small, so his rear looks very bulbous and lumpy. I just have a hard time believing he'll grow into that, frankly.
Reply from Jesse, Child's Age 14 - 10/28/23 - IP#: 174.202.7.xxx Bradley, is your son a sports fan or participant? If/when he brings the subject up again, point out to him that most defensive/offensive football linemen, soccer goalies, baseball catchers, and shotput and discuss throwers in track and field are built the same way as him. A big butt can actually be an advantage
Reply from Eric, Child's Age 14 - 10/29/23 - IP#: 78.156.5.xxx With a broad/muscular build, I think it is more common as well. Is he embarrassed himself, or happy with his body? I would not worry at all, and of course also try to make him feel well and comfortable in his body.
Reply from Bradley, Child's Age 11 - 10/29/23 - IP#: 58.161.8.xxx In terms of asking the doctor about this, I feel silly for putting it off this far. Also, there's the issue of embarassment which he's brought up before...should tread carefully. And in regards to muscle yes he seems stronger than average for his age, with thicker chest, shoulders and arms than most, without much 'flab'.
Reply from Eric, Child's Age 14 - 10/28/23 - IP#: 78.156.5.xxx I have to second what Jesse writes here. Completely normal to happen as part of normal pre-puberty weight gain and nothing to worry about. Puberty will redistribute the body mass and even out things a lot. I have seen the same tendency in both my sons, and I can recall having the same issue as a kid myself. Is your son physically active, or is his muscle mass on the lower side?
Reply from Jesse, Child's Age 14 - 10/28/23 - IP#: 174.202.7.xxx Bradley, my oldest son was built the same way when he was younger. The pediatrician said it was "pre-puberty weight gain" and his body would even out as he got older. Does your son qualify for an annual physical through your insurance? If so, ask the his pediatrician what he/she thinks.
Reply from Bradley, Child's Age 11 - 10/28/23 - IP#: 203.189.85.xxx He's around 4'11 and 115lbs. But he doesn't really have a big belly or chubby face, I've always seen him as just a very broad build. His thighs are large but all the excess fat is on the glutes/buttocks. They protrude out noticeably now. He always insists on wearing sweatpants because they're comfy but even in a men's size that butt looks massive. I've wondered if it's a hormone issue? I understand people store fat in different ways but I'm wondering if others have perhaps had a similar problem for this age group.
Reply from Eric, Child's Age 14 - 10/28/23 - IP#: 78.156.5.xxx I would not worry. Remember he still has to go through puberty in a few years, where the body is reshaped. What is his weight and height?
