Lab
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Gender
4 comments
Beyond the frequently discussed benefits of being shorter (more leg room, will never hit your head on a ceiling etc), scientific data has suggested that being short comes with surprising benefits.
Statistically, shorter people have greater a body symmetry and coordination when compared to others who are taller. These physical benefits allow shorter people to naturally have:
- Faster reaction times
- A greater ability to accelerate body movements
- Stronger muscles in proportion to body weight
- Greater endurance and the ability to rotate the body faster
- Less likelihood of breaking bones when falling
Some scientists have also suggested that shorter people have increased longevity. Although these results are far from conclusive, certain studies have identified a correlation between height and mortality risk.
As one who is tall I find this interesting. I have always wished to be small, or at least smaller but obviously I have no concept of what being small feels to make a decision although I guess average must be best where clothes are neither too short or too long and fit easily.
The problem with being tall is that you are always noticed. For some this may be an advantage if you are the "front of house" type rather than "supporting cast" so I suppose to be for or against your argument is not as straightforward as it sounds.
The preconceptions surrounding height or the lack of it can be disconcerting, not all tall people are good at sports or capable types for instance whilst I am sure short people are not as helpless as some may imagine.
Evolution seems to be making us taller as many have better access to nutritious food and in this age of equality and inclusivity I assume there is no gender bias in your argument but I think fewer men would wish to be small perhaps.
Personally agree completely, overall I remain mixed.
Taller people are advantaged in many sports. Longer legs advantage players from basketball to race track. Longer limbs can cover the ground faster, and they can reach further Ensuring an advantage to team players or lone athletes.
For instance, Usain Bolt has won eight Gold Olympic medals and is over 6 foot tall. This is not to say that the length of Bolt’s legs is the only reason for his success, however, it shows how a bit of height gives you an advantage in the sports arena!
Equally, in sports like netball, height can give you a major advantage. Being taller you’re your opponent can make it easier to prevent them passing the ball and allows you to see past them.
In turn, being tall is better than being short as it gives you an instant advantage against your opponent in many sports.
I am conflicted because there are a lot of advantages or disadvantages of being short or tall. As a short person, I feel that I can do many things, such as never having trouble on an aeroplane where my tall husband always has trouble with the legroom. Another advantage of being short is that I can more comfortably move around small and low-ceilinged spaces. It is also easier for me to clean as I can move around more easily than if I would do if I were taller. Plus, according to David Robson, shorter people are sometimes quicker on their feet ( BBC Future ).
On the other hand, taller people can reach for things more easily and they are also generally better at sports like basketball and running. Being short is a disadvantage in regard to these, especially because they find it difficult to reach higher places and complete when running. I have to say that I am mixed on this opinion.
Make the case or invite a friend to comment!