Tallness is a highly sought trait in many cultures. Although there are many differences across countries, the Chinese usually measure around the same height as the world average. This article will examine the average height of Chinese males, and discuss the underlying factors that can explain why Chinese males tend to be shorter than their western counterparts.
A Comparative Analysis of Average Heights in China
When looking at the average height of men across the globe, the average for Chinese men is the same as the global average according to a 2019 study from the World Health Organization (WHO). However, when comparing with countries in the west, such as the United States or the UK, Chinese men tend to be shorter. On average, most American men measure around 5’10” (178 cm) while the average Chinese man comes in at 5’7” (172 cm).
Despite being shorter on average, Chinese males are by no means the shortest in comparison to other countries like South Korea. The average height of males in South Korea is only 5’6” (169 cm).
Why Are Chinese Men Shorter?
There are various underlying factors that can account for the shorter heights of Chinese men. It should be noted that shorter height can mean different things due to differences in genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
The first factor to consider is genetic heritage. As much as 90 percent of height is determined by genetic factors, meaning that any difference in height between populations is largely due to genetics. China is known for its ethnically homogenous population, meaning that the average height for Chinese men might be lower due to genetic heritage.
In addition to genetics, lifestyle factors such as nutrition and exercise can also have a significant impact on height. Poor diets and lack of physical activity can both account for why Chinese men tend to be shorter than their western counterparts.
In China, there is a persistent problem of malnutrition or inadequate diets due to poverty and lack of access to resources, particularly in rural areas. As such, Chinese men may be shorter due to poor nutrition and health. Finally, environmental factors play a role in height as well.
Pollution and lack of clean air are both highly prevalent in China and can severely impact growth hormones, ultimately leading to shorter heights.
What is the Average Height of Chinese Women?
Apart from the average height of Chinese men, it is also important to consider the average height for Chinese women. Generally speaking, the average height for Chinese women is around 5’3” (162 cm). This is significantly shorter than the global average, which is 5’6” (168 cm).
Similarly to Chinese men, the shorter heights of Chinese women can be attributed to genetics, nutrition, and the environment. Additionally, cultural and gender norms in China can lead to differences in height between the genders.
How Does Height Affect Success?
It is no secret that height is often a mark of success. Studies have repeatedly shown that taller people are more likely to get better jobs and earn more money than their shorter counterparts.
In China specifically, big tall men are often viewed as better leaders and tend to enjoy more success in terms of their occupational and social status. This means that the shorter height of Chinese men can be a hindrance when it comes to occupying positions of power and achieving success in the workplace. This can cause the average height of Chinese men to remain lower than other populations for longer, without any tangible improvement in the overall average.
Are There Exceptions in China?
Generally speaking, the average height of Chinese men is lower than the global average. However, there are certain exceptions to this. For instance, in some areas of coastal provinces, the average height is higher than the national average due to improved access to resources and better health care.
Similarly, Chinese men in the southern portion of the country tend to be taller than their northern counterparts.
Can Height be Improved?
In terms of improving the average height of Chinese men, there are a few solutions. The first is encouraging improved nutrition in China, particularly in rural areas.
This means better access to nutritious foods, more education on cooking healthily, and more awareness of balanced diets. Additionally, increasing physical activity amongst Chinese people can also help improve the average height. This means incorporating more exercise into daily life through physical education in schools, and creating more opportunities for leisure and recreational activities.
The Impact of Height on Health
Height is not only important for physical attractiveness and success, but it can also have an impact on health. Studies have found that taller people tend to be healthier and live longer than shorter people. This is because taller people can more easily reach down and grab things around the house and can more easily maintain an active lifestyle.
In addition, taller people tend to have less body fat and are more likely to exercise regularly. In comparison, shorter individuals are more likely to lead sedentary lifestyles, and are at higher risk of developing chronic illnesses due to lack of exercise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the average height for Chinese men is lower than the global average. This is largely due to genetic heritage, lifestyles and environmental factors.
Regardless of this, height remains a heavily sought trait in many cultures and can affect the success, health and social status of individuals. In order to improve the average height of Chinese men, it is important to focus on improving nutrition and physical activity, as well as addressing social and cultural norms related to height.