I read with great interest the recent article by Williams et al. entitled, How Much Does the Warm-Up Contribute to the Soccer Match-Day Load?. The only other know study to examine this topic was published from my lab – Vescovi & Klas (2018): Accounting for the warm-up: describing the proportion of total session demands in women’s field hockey – Female Athletes in Motion (FAiM) study, Int J Perf Analysis Sport, DOI:10.1080/24748668.2018.1525980. The outcomes between these two studies were similar for total distance (21% vs. 26% of total distance performed during warm-up) but differed for sprint distance (27% vs. 6% of sprint distance performed during warm-up). Additional studies are needed to better understand the total demands experienced by athletes for an entire session, inclusive of the warm-up.
Jason, thank you for your comments. You raise a great question – what constitutes a proper warm-up in terms of volume, intensity, technique and mental focus. Also, coaches sometimes forget that warm up can be an important factor determining load for a match. We’ve also recently published a paper on extra-time periods in the college game. they add another ~20% to the days load (Science and Medicine in Football. 2019 Apr 28:1-6). In fact, combining warm-up, regulation and extra time,it is not uncommon for college females to approach 16 km of total distance (~10 miles).
# Bald Men: Biology, Culture, and Changing Perceptions
Baldness is one of the most noticeable changes that can happen to a person’s appearance. For many men, losing hair is a normal part of growing older, while for others it can begin much earlier in life. Although baldness is often treated as a joke or used as a visual stereotype in films, television, and everyday conversation, the subject is more complicated than it first appears. Hair has played an important role in human culture for thousands of years, and the loss of hair can influence how people think about age, attractiveness, confidence, masculinity, and identity. At the same time, baldness is a completely natural biological process for many people.
The most common form of hair loss in men is known as male pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia. It is influenced by genetics and hormones and usually develops gradually. A typical pattern may begin with the hairline moving backward or with thinning around the crown of the head. Over time, these areas can become increasingly thin. The exact pattern and speed of hair loss differ greatly from person to person. Some men retain most of their hair throughout their lives, while others become noticeably bald at a relatively young age. This variation demonstrates that there is no single experience of being bald.
Hair itself serves several biological purposes. Human hair can provide some protection from sunlight and help regulate temperature, although modern clothing and shelter have reduced the importance of these functions. Hair also has an important social role. People can cut it, grow it, style it, dye it, or otherwise use it to express themselves. Because hairstyles are visible and relatively easy to change, they have become closely connected with personal identity. Losing hair can therefore feel significant even though it does not usually represent a serious medical problem.
The biological causes of male pattern baldness are particularly interesting. Genetics play a major role, meaning that men may be more likely to experience baldness if it is common among their relatives. Hormones also contribute. One hormone involved is dihydrotestosterone, commonly called DHT. In people who are genetically sensitive to DHT, hair follicles can gradually become smaller. As the follicles shrink, they may produce thinner and shorter hairs until some follicles eventually stop producing noticeable hair. This process is called miniaturisation. Importantly, baldness is not simply a result of having “too much” or “too little” testosterone. The relationship between hormones, genetics, and hair follicles is more complicated than that.
Although baldness is often associated with old age, it does not only affect older men. Some people begin losing hair during their teenage years or in their twenties. This can sometimes make the experience particularly noticeable because hair loss may happen at an age when many people expect to have a full head of hair. A young man who becomes bald may feel different from his friends or worry about how others perceive him. These feelings are understandable, particularly in cultures where thick hair is strongly associated with youth.
The cultural history of bald men is surprisingly broad. Ancient societies had different attitudes toward hair and baldness. In some cultures, shaving the head was associated with religion, discipline, cleanliness, or membership of a particular group. Monks in several religious traditions have historically shaved or removed their hair as part of religious practice. In other contexts, hair was associated with status, strength, or beauty. This demonstrates that there is no universal human reaction to baldness. The meaning of a shaved or bald head depends heavily on cultural expectations.
Bald men have also frequently appeared in art, literature, and popular culture. Their appearance has sometimes been used as a shorthand for particular characteristics. A bald character might be portrayed as intelligent, serious, powerful, old, humorous, threatening, or eccentric. Such associations are stereotypes rather than biological facts, but repeated exposure to them can influence how people think. For example, a bald fictional villain may contribute to the idea that baldness looks intimidating, while a bald comedian may encourage the association between baldness and humour.
One of the most persistent stereotypes is that bald men are older than they actually are. Because hair loss commonly increases with age, people may unconsciously associate a bald appearance with being older. However, this assumption can be inaccurate. Two men of exactly the same age can have completely different amounts of hair. One may have thick hair, another may have significant hair loss, and another may have chosen to shave his head. Appearance does not provide a reliable way of determining someone’s age.
Another common association is masculinity. In some forms of popular culture, bald men are portrayed as tough, dominant, or physically powerful. This image can be seen in action films, advertisements, and sports culture. However, there is nothing about being bald that automatically makes someone stronger or more masculine. The stereotype probably comes partly from the fact that some confident public figures have embraced baldness and incorporated it into their appearance. When people repeatedly see successful or powerful bald men, baldness can become associated with confidence.
Confidence is an especially important part of the modern discussion surrounding baldness. Some men initially feel uncomfortable about losing their hair but eventually become comfortable with their appearance. Shaving the remaining hair, for example, can create a deliberate style rather than making hair loss appear accidental. Others prefer to keep their hair longer or use different hairstyles. There is no universally correct response. The important point is that baldness does not have to determine someone’s personality or self-worth.
The fashion industry has also contributed to changing attitudes toward baldness. Modern ideas about men’s hairstyles are more varied than they were in the past. Men can have long hair, short hair, shaved heads, fades, braids, or no hair at all. Social media has further increased the number of visible styles and appearances. As people encounter a wider range of appearances, some traditional assumptions about what men “should” look like have become less rigid.
Despite this progress, baldness can still be a source of insecurity. Advertising sometimes presents thick, youthful hair as an ideal appearance and promotes products designed to prevent or reverse hair loss. Some treatments can be medically appropriate, but the commercial pressure surrounding hair loss can make people feel as though normal biological changes are defects that need to be fixed. This raises a broader question about beauty standards: when does personal grooming become a choice, and when does society make people feel obligated to change themselves?
The answer is different for everyone. A man may choose to seek treatment because he personally wants to change his appearance. Another man may decide that he is comfortable being bald. Neither choice is inherently better. The key distinction is between making a personal decision and feeling forced by social pressure. People should be able to decide how they want to present themselves without being judged harshly for either embracing or changing their appearance.
Baldness can also have practical advantages. Some men find that having less hair reduces the amount of time they spend washing, drying, and styling it. A shaved head can require relatively little daily maintenance, although people with shaved heads still need to take care of their scalp. Sun protection can be particularly important because the scalp may receive more direct sunlight when it has little or no hair. This is a simple example of how baldness can change everyday routines without necessarily making life worse.
Humour is another major part of the way baldness is discussed. Bald men are sometimes the subject of jokes about hair, age, or appearance. Jokes can be harmless when everyone involved is comfortable with them, but repeated comments can also become irritating or hurtful. The difference often depends on context and the relationship between the people involved. Like jokes about many other physical characteristics, comments about baldness can cross a line when they are intended to embarrass or insult someone.
Interestingly, baldness can sometimes become an important part of a person’s recognisable appearance. People may associate a distinctive bald hairstyle or shaved head with a particular public figure. In these situations, hair loss is no longer something hidden or embarrassing; it becomes part of the person’s visual identity. This illustrates how strongly humans adapt to appearances. A characteristic that initially seems unusual can become completely ordinary once people become accustomed to it.
There is also an important distinction between baldness and other causes of hair loss. Male pattern baldness is common and usually develops gradually, but sudden or unusual hair loss can have different causes. Stress, nutritional problems, certain illnesses, medications, and other conditions can affect hair growth. Therefore, someone experiencing unexpected or rapid hair loss should not automatically assume that it is ordinary male pattern baldness. A healthcare professional can help determine whether there is an underlying cause.
For men who are losing their hair, social support can make a difference. Friends and family members may not realise that casual comments about someone’s appearance can affect their confidence. Being respectful does not mean treating baldness as something tragic. Instead, it means recognising that people have different feelings about their appearance. Some men may not care about hair loss at all, while others may need time to adjust to it.
Ultimately, baldness is neither inherently positive nor negative. It is a physical characteristic that has different meanings for different people. Biology determines much of whether and when a man loses his hair, but society influences how that change is interpreted. A bald man can be young or old, confident or shy, athletic or academic, funny or serious, successful or unsuccessful. Hair—or the absence of it—does not determine personality.
The changing perception of bald men reflects a broader change in society’s understanding of appearance. Modern culture increasingly recognises that there is no single correct way for a man to look. Some people enjoy experimenting with hairstyles, while others prefer a simple appearance. Some embrace natural hair loss, while others explore ways to change it. All of these approaches can be valid when they are freely chosen.
In conclusion, baldness is a fascinating subject because it connects biology with culture, psychology, fashion, and social expectations. For many men, losing hair is simply a natural part of life. For others, it can be an important personal experience that affects their confidence and identity. History shows that attitudes toward baldness have varied considerably, proving that there is nothing universal about the way people interpret hair loss. Although stereotypes continue to exist, they do not define bald men as individuals.
Perhaps the most important lesson is that a person’s appearance should not be treated as a measure of their worth. Hair can be an enjoyable part of personal style, but it is only one small aspect of someone’s identity. Whether a man has a full head of hair, a receding hairline, a shaved head, or is completely bald, the same qualities that matter most—character, kindness, intelligence, humour, determination, and individuality—remain independent of how much hair is on his head. Baldness may change someone’s appearance, but it does not determine who they are.
Baldness is often treated as something that a person should be embarrassed about, something that needs to be hidden, corrected, or fought against. Society places enormous importance on appearance, especially hair, and from a young age we are taught that thick, healthy hair represents youth, beauty, and confidence. Because of this, losing hair can sometimes feel like losing a part of one’s identity. However, I strongly agree with the person who writes about baldness from a place of honesty and acceptance. I believe that baldness is not something that makes a person less attractive, less valuable, or less worthy of love. In fact, learning to accept baldness can be an important expression of self-confidence and self-love.
When I read someone’s thoughts about baldness, I understand why the subject can carry so much emotional weight. Hair is not simply a physical feature. For many people, it is connected to memories, personality, culture, and the way they see themselves. Losing it can therefore bring feelings of sadness, insecurity, or fear. A person may look in the mirror and feel that the reflection is different from the person they remember. They may wonder whether other people will judge them or whether they will still be considered attractive. These feelings are completely understandable. We should not dismiss them by simply saying that appearance does not matter. Appearance can affect confidence, and confidence can affect many parts of life.
At the same time, I agree with the idea that baldness does not have to be viewed negatively. A bald head can be attractive, distinctive, and full of character. Many people who are bald carry themselves with a confidence that makes them especially appealing. Their appearance becomes part of who they are rather than something they feel compelled to hide. There is something powerful about a person who can look at themselves honestly and say, “This is me, and I am comfortable being myself.”
For me, this is where love becomes particularly important. Loving someone means seeing beyond the features that society tells us to value. It means appreciating the whole person: their kindness, humor, intelligence, patience, vulnerability, strength, and the way they make us feel when we are together. Hair may change throughout a person’s life, but the qualities that make us love someone can be much deeper and more lasting. If I love someone who is bald, their lack of hair does not reduce that love in any way. I would not want them to believe that they need to change their appearance to deserve affection.
I also believe that loving someone means accepting the things they may initially struggle to accept about themselves. If a person feels insecure about becoming bald, the answer should not be to make them feel ashamed. Instead, they deserve reassurance, understanding, and encouragement. They should know that their value has not disappeared simply because their hair has. A loving partner or friend can remind them that they are still the same person, with the same qualities that made them special in the first place.
The person writing about baldness may be expressing feelings that many others experience but are afraid to discuss. I agree with their honesty because it is important to challenge the idea that people must always look young or fit a particular standard of beauty. Human beings naturally change as they grow older. Hair becomes thinner, skin changes, bodies change, and faces develop new lines. These changes are not failures. They are evidence that we are living, growing, and experiencing life.
There is also an important difference between accepting baldness and pretending that it never affects someone emotionally. Acceptance does not mean that a person is forbidden from feeling sad. It means that those feelings do not have to control their identity. Someone can wish they had more hair and still love themselves. They can experiment with different hairstyles, shave their head, wear a hat, or simply allow their hair to change naturally. The important thing is that their choices come from themselves rather than from the belief that they are somehow inadequate.
I find this attitude deeply admirable. There is courage in being honest about something that makes you vulnerable. Writing about baldness can open a conversation about confidence, aging, attractiveness, and self-worth. It can help people realize that they are not alone in their insecurities. More importantly, it can encourage us to become kinder toward ourselves and toward other people.
If I love a bald person, I want them to understand that I love them as they are. I do not see their baldness as something that needs to be overlooked or tolerated. It is simply one part of their appearance, just as their eyes, smile, voice, or height are parts of who they are. I can appreciate their baldness without making it the entire definition of their identity. What matters most to me is the person underneath the appearance.
Love should not depend on perfection. In fact, the idea of perfection is often an obstacle to genuine love because it encourages us to constantly search for something better or different. Real love involves seeing a person honestly and choosing to appreciate them, including the changes that come with time. If someone’s hair disappears, their ability to love, laugh, care, dream, and make another person happy does not disappear with it.
Ultimately, I agree with the message that baldness should not be a source of shame. It can be a natural part of life and, for some people, even a defining and attractive feature. More importantly, no physical characteristic should determine whether a person deserves love. A person deserves to be loved because they are human, because they have a heart and a personality, and because of the unique qualities they bring into someone else’s life.
To love someone who is bald is therefore not about loving them despite their baldness. It is about loving them completely, without allowing society’s narrow ideas of beauty to determine their worth. If anything, accepting baldness can teach us a larger lesson: that genuine beauty comes from authenticity, confidence, kindness, and connection. Hair can change, but love can remain. And when we learn to see people for who they truly are rather than for what they look like, we discover a much deeper and more meaningful kind of beauty.
Dear Mr Anonymous,
a name without a name,
a shadow in the hallway,
a whisper without fame.
Who are you?
Nobody knows.
Where did you come from?
Nobody can disclose.
You arrived like a mystery,
quiet as the moon,
yet somehow every room
seemed brighter when you came through.
You possess the ancient power
of being impossible to identify.
A face? Unknown.
A surname? Classified.
A middle name?
Probably classified twice.
And yet, Mr Anonymous,
despite your secrecy,
you have somehow become
a figure of great importance to me.
Not because of romance,
not because of fame,
but because whenever you appear,
something entertaining happens
and absolutely nobody
knows who is to blame.
You are mysterious.
You are legendary.
You are approximately
seventy percent question mark
and thirty percent confusion.
If Sherlock Holmes met you,
he’d probably take one look
at your completely anonymous identity
and quietly close his notebook.
If detectives searched for you,
they would find nothing.
If historians investigated you,
they would discover rumours.
If scientists studied you,
they would publish a paper entitled:
**”Mr Anonymous:
We Have No Idea What Is Happening.”**
And honestly?
Respect.
—
## The Case of Mr Anonymous
There are ordinary people.
There are extraordinary people.
And then there is you:
Mr Anonymous.
You cannot simply walk into a room.
No.
You must **arrive**.
You must create an atmosphere.
You must cause at least three people
to turn around and ask:
“Who is that?”
And the answer?
Nobody knows.
The mystery grows.
The legend expands.
The evidence disappears.
The witnesses become confused.
And somewhere,
probably in a dusty office
underneath an even dustier lamp,
a detective writes:
> “Subject remains anonymous.”
And closes the file.
Because what else can they do?
Your anonymity is too powerful.
It is not merely a lack of information.
It is an art form.
A lifestyle.
A philosophy.
A commitment.
Most people spend their lives
trying to become known.
You?
You have achieved the opposite.
You have become **unknown**
with such incredible dedication
that it has somehow made you memorable.
That is talent.
That is commitment.
That is Mr Anonymous.
—
## A Friendship of Great Importance
Now, Mr Anonymous,
I must clarify something.
This poem is not romantic.
There shall be no candlelit declarations.
No dramatic orchestral music.
No staring deeply into one another’s eyes
while rain falls dramatically in the background.
Absolutely not.
Instead,
I offer something far more powerful:
**friendship.**
The kind of friendship
where someone sends you a completely pointless message
at exactly the wrong time.
The kind where you can spend ten minutes
arguing about something
that neither person actually understands.
The kind where one person says,
“Trust me.”
And the other immediately replies,
“I absolutely do not.”
That is friendship.
True friendship is not necessarily elegant.
Sometimes it is chaotic.
Sometimes it is ridiculous.
Sometimes it consists entirely
of sending each other nonsense
until one person finally says,
“What are we even doing?”
And the answer is:
Nobody knows.
Especially not Mr Anonymous.
—
## The Great Qualities of Mr Anonymous
Let us now list your achievements.
You are mysterious.
You are confusing.
You are probably somewhere.
You have a name.
We think.
You exist.
Presumably.
You have somehow inspired
a 3,000-word poem.
That alone should probably
be added to your résumé.
Under “Achievements,”
you may now write:
**”Inspired an unnecessarily long poem.”**
Under “Skills,”
you may write:
**”Remaining anonymous.”**
Under “Experience,”
you may write:
**”Being Mr Anonymous.”**
And under “References,”
simply put:
**”Nobody knows.”**
Perfect.
—
## The Legendary Partnership Proposal
And now, Mr Anonymous,
we arrive at the most important moment.
The proposal.
But not a romantic proposal.
No.
Something far more practical.
Something far more sensible.
Something far more financially questionable.
Mr Anonymous…
Will you…
**enter into a completely unofficial,
legally meaningless,
highly questionable friendship partnership with me?**
I promise:
To provide unnecessary commentary.
To laugh at jokes that are not funny.
To send messages that make absolutely no sense.
To defend your anonymous reputation.
To refuse to reveal your secret identity.
To support your mysterious lifestyle.
To participate in conversations
that somehow begin normally
and end with complete nonsense.
I offer you:
One friendship.
Zero romance.
Unlimited chaos.
And absolutely no paperwork.
—
## Terms and Conditions
By accepting this proposal,
Mr Anonymous agrees to the following:
### Rule One
You must remain mysterious.
This is essential.
If you suddenly reveal everything,
the entire brand collapses.
### Rule Two
You must occasionally say something
so confusing that everyone else
needs approximately fourteen minutes
to understand it.
### Rule Three
You must never underestimate
the power of a stupid joke.
### Rule Four
If either person says,
“Wait, listen…”
the other person must prepare
for something completely ridiculous.
### Rule Five
If an argument begins
over something insignificant,
both parties must eventually realise
that neither person remembers
how the argument started.
### Rule Six
The friendship shall remain
completely free from unnecessary drama.
Unless the drama is funny.
In which case,
carry on.
### Rule Seven
Mr Anonymous must preserve
the sacred mystery
of being Mr Anonymous.
Failure to comply
may result in immediate investigation
by the Department of Extremely Serious Mysteries.
—
## The Department of Extremely Serious Mysteries
I have founded this department
specifically for you.
Its headquarters are unknown.
Its employees are unknown.
Its budget is unknown.
Its purpose is unknown.
Its opening hours are unknown.
And, quite appropriately,
its director is anonymous.
The department investigates:
Missing socks.
Suspicious sandwiches.
Unexplained noises.
People who say “I’ll be there in five minutes”
and arrive twenty minutes later.
The mysterious disappearance
of pens from classrooms.
Why chargers vanish
the exact moment they are needed.
And, most importantly:
**Who exactly is Mr Anonymous?**
Unfortunately,
after years of research,
the department has reached
the following conclusion:
“We don’t know.”
A groundbreaking discovery.
—
## A Toast to Friendship
So let us raise an imaginary glass.
Not of anything inappropriate.
Perhaps lemonade.
Or orange juice.
Or water.
To Mr Anonymous.
To mystery.
To friendship.
To ridiculous conversations.
To inside jokes.
To moments that make absolutely no sense
but somehow become unforgettable.
To the people who make ordinary days
slightly less ordinary.
To the people who can turn
five minutes of free time
into an entire adventure.
To the people who don’t need
a grand reason to laugh.
To the people who remind us
that life doesn’t always have to be serious.
The continued posting of articles, essays, and other material about baldness in the comment section is unacceptable. This is not a debate, and it is not something we will continue tolerating.
You have been warned. Stop posting this material immediately. Comments that are irrelevant, repetitive, disruptive, or deliberately posted to provoke others will be removed without discussion.
Any further attempt to ignore this warning, derail discussions, spam the comments, or circumvent moderation will result in immediate loss of commenting privileges and a permanent ban. We reserve the right to take action without further warnings or extended explanations.
Do not mistake the fact that you have been given warnings for weakness. Moderation decisions are final, and we will enforce the site’s rules consistently.
This is your last warning. Keep your contributions relevant, or lose your access to the comment section.
I’ve seen your message telling me to “stop misbehaving,” and respectfully… be so for real right now.
I have reviewed the allegations, consulted absolutely nobody, conducted a completely unbiased investigation into my own behaviour, and reached the only reasonable conclusion:
I am innocent. The allegations are giving misinformation.
What you call “misbehaviour,” I call having aura.
What you call “disruption,” I call community engagement.
What you call “being annoying,” I call keeping the server from being dry.
You’re looking at the situation through a moderator lens, Susan. I’m looking at it through the lens of someone who is simply standing on business.
And before you hit me with the classic “rules are rules” argument, let me remind you that technically speaking, I have not broken the laws of physics, mathematics, or basic international diplomacy. Therefore, I believe my case should be dismissed.
I also find it slightly concerning that you expect me to simply “stop.”
Stop what, Susan?
Being funny?
Being iconic?
Providing free entertainment?
Creating moments that will undoubtedly be discussed for generations?
Be serious.
Without my contributions, this place would have the entertainment value of an unseasoned piece of toast.
I am not the problem.
I am the plot development.
I am the unexpected update nobody asked for but everybody secretly needed.
I am the reason the moderators have something to do.
And honestly, telling me to stop is kinda crazy work.
That being said, I am willing to negotiate.
I will reduce my alleged misbehaviour by approximately 3.7%, provided that you acknowledge that I have been unfairly persecuted for the crime of possessing too much comedic potential.
This is my final offer.
No cap.
If you wish to escalate this matter, please contact my completely legitimate legal representatives at +1 555-0147.
They are currently unavailable because they do not exist.
But neither, apparently, does the evidence against me.
Thank you for your understanding.
Stay safe, stay hydrated, and please reconsider your allegations before you get cooked in the appeals process.
Respectfully,
A Completely Innocent Citizen Who Has Been Framed by the Susan Administration
P.S. If your immediate response is “This is exactly why you’re being told to stop,” I regret to inform you that you have just provided Exhibit A for my defence.
👌
I have now personally reviewed this matter, including your response to my good friend Susan.
Let me be absolutely clear: this behavior stops now.
Susan was acting in her capacity as a moderator and gave you a reasonable instruction to stop posting inappropriate and off-topic material. Instead of respecting that instruction, you chose to mock her and continue the behavior. That is unacceptable.
You are not being asked to agree with moderation decisions. You are being required to follow the rules of this site.
Any further inappropriate, harassing, disruptive, or deliberately provocative conduct will result in an immediate ban. You will not receive endless warnings, negotiations, or opportunities to turn moderation into another joke.
If your conduct escalates into threats, harassment, or any other potentially unlawful behavior, we will preserve the relevant evidence and, where appropriate, report the matter to the police and/or the relevant governing or professional board.
I sincerely hope that will not be necessary.
This is your final opportunity to simply stop, respect the moderators, and participate appropriately. If you choose to continue, you will lose access to this community.
There will be no further debate about this warning.
I read with great interest the recent article by Williams et al. entitled, How Much Does the Warm-Up Contribute to the Soccer Match-Day Load?. The only other know study to examine this topic was published from my lab – Vescovi & Klas (2018): Accounting for the warm-up: describing the proportion of total session demands in women’s field hockey – Female Athletes in Motion (FAiM) study, Int J Perf Analysis Sport, DOI:10.1080/24748668.2018.1525980. The outcomes between these two studies were similar for total distance (21% vs. 26% of total distance performed during warm-up) but differed for sprint distance (27% vs. 6% of sprint distance performed during warm-up). Additional studies are needed to better understand the total demands experienced by athletes for an entire session, inclusive of the warm-up.
Dr. Jason D. Vescovi
Jason, thank you for your comments. You raise a great question – what constitutes a proper warm-up in terms of volume, intensity, technique and mental focus. Also, coaches sometimes forget that warm up can be an important factor determining load for a match. We’ve also recently published a paper on extra-time periods in the college game. they add another ~20% to the days load (Science and Medicine in Football. 2019 Apr 28:1-6). In fact, combining warm-up, regulation and extra time,it is not uncommon for college females to approach 16 km of total distance (~10 miles).
Honestly, this helped me understand the topic much better. Appreciate the effort
im loveeee sports
Im in love with you 😜
# Bald Men: Biology, Culture, and Changing Perceptions
Baldness is one of the most noticeable changes that can happen to a person’s appearance. For many men, losing hair is a normal part of growing older, while for others it can begin much earlier in life. Although baldness is often treated as a joke or used as a visual stereotype in films, television, and everyday conversation, the subject is more complicated than it first appears. Hair has played an important role in human culture for thousands of years, and the loss of hair can influence how people think about age, attractiveness, confidence, masculinity, and identity. At the same time, baldness is a completely natural biological process for many people.
The most common form of hair loss in men is known as male pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia. It is influenced by genetics and hormones and usually develops gradually. A typical pattern may begin with the hairline moving backward or with thinning around the crown of the head. Over time, these areas can become increasingly thin. The exact pattern and speed of hair loss differ greatly from person to person. Some men retain most of their hair throughout their lives, while others become noticeably bald at a relatively young age. This variation demonstrates that there is no single experience of being bald.
Hair itself serves several biological purposes. Human hair can provide some protection from sunlight and help regulate temperature, although modern clothing and shelter have reduced the importance of these functions. Hair also has an important social role. People can cut it, grow it, style it, dye it, or otherwise use it to express themselves. Because hairstyles are visible and relatively easy to change, they have become closely connected with personal identity. Losing hair can therefore feel significant even though it does not usually represent a serious medical problem.
The biological causes of male pattern baldness are particularly interesting. Genetics play a major role, meaning that men may be more likely to experience baldness if it is common among their relatives. Hormones also contribute. One hormone involved is dihydrotestosterone, commonly called DHT. In people who are genetically sensitive to DHT, hair follicles can gradually become smaller. As the follicles shrink, they may produce thinner and shorter hairs until some follicles eventually stop producing noticeable hair. This process is called miniaturisation. Importantly, baldness is not simply a result of having “too much” or “too little” testosterone. The relationship between hormones, genetics, and hair follicles is more complicated than that.
Although baldness is often associated with old age, it does not only affect older men. Some people begin losing hair during their teenage years or in their twenties. This can sometimes make the experience particularly noticeable because hair loss may happen at an age when many people expect to have a full head of hair. A young man who becomes bald may feel different from his friends or worry about how others perceive him. These feelings are understandable, particularly in cultures where thick hair is strongly associated with youth.
The cultural history of bald men is surprisingly broad. Ancient societies had different attitudes toward hair and baldness. In some cultures, shaving the head was associated with religion, discipline, cleanliness, or membership of a particular group. Monks in several religious traditions have historically shaved or removed their hair as part of religious practice. In other contexts, hair was associated with status, strength, or beauty. This demonstrates that there is no universal human reaction to baldness. The meaning of a shaved or bald head depends heavily on cultural expectations.
Bald men have also frequently appeared in art, literature, and popular culture. Their appearance has sometimes been used as a shorthand for particular characteristics. A bald character might be portrayed as intelligent, serious, powerful, old, humorous, threatening, or eccentric. Such associations are stereotypes rather than biological facts, but repeated exposure to them can influence how people think. For example, a bald fictional villain may contribute to the idea that baldness looks intimidating, while a bald comedian may encourage the association between baldness and humour.
One of the most persistent stereotypes is that bald men are older than they actually are. Because hair loss commonly increases with age, people may unconsciously associate a bald appearance with being older. However, this assumption can be inaccurate. Two men of exactly the same age can have completely different amounts of hair. One may have thick hair, another may have significant hair loss, and another may have chosen to shave his head. Appearance does not provide a reliable way of determining someone’s age.
Another common association is masculinity. In some forms of popular culture, bald men are portrayed as tough, dominant, or physically powerful. This image can be seen in action films, advertisements, and sports culture. However, there is nothing about being bald that automatically makes someone stronger or more masculine. The stereotype probably comes partly from the fact that some confident public figures have embraced baldness and incorporated it into their appearance. When people repeatedly see successful or powerful bald men, baldness can become associated with confidence.
Confidence is an especially important part of the modern discussion surrounding baldness. Some men initially feel uncomfortable about losing their hair but eventually become comfortable with their appearance. Shaving the remaining hair, for example, can create a deliberate style rather than making hair loss appear accidental. Others prefer to keep their hair longer or use different hairstyles. There is no universally correct response. The important point is that baldness does not have to determine someone’s personality or self-worth.
The fashion industry has also contributed to changing attitudes toward baldness. Modern ideas about men’s hairstyles are more varied than they were in the past. Men can have long hair, short hair, shaved heads, fades, braids, or no hair at all. Social media has further increased the number of visible styles and appearances. As people encounter a wider range of appearances, some traditional assumptions about what men “should” look like have become less rigid.
Despite this progress, baldness can still be a source of insecurity. Advertising sometimes presents thick, youthful hair as an ideal appearance and promotes products designed to prevent or reverse hair loss. Some treatments can be medically appropriate, but the commercial pressure surrounding hair loss can make people feel as though normal biological changes are defects that need to be fixed. This raises a broader question about beauty standards: when does personal grooming become a choice, and when does society make people feel obligated to change themselves?
The answer is different for everyone. A man may choose to seek treatment because he personally wants to change his appearance. Another man may decide that he is comfortable being bald. Neither choice is inherently better. The key distinction is between making a personal decision and feeling forced by social pressure. People should be able to decide how they want to present themselves without being judged harshly for either embracing or changing their appearance.
Baldness can also have practical advantages. Some men find that having less hair reduces the amount of time they spend washing, drying, and styling it. A shaved head can require relatively little daily maintenance, although people with shaved heads still need to take care of their scalp. Sun protection can be particularly important because the scalp may receive more direct sunlight when it has little or no hair. This is a simple example of how baldness can change everyday routines without necessarily making life worse.
Humour is another major part of the way baldness is discussed. Bald men are sometimes the subject of jokes about hair, age, or appearance. Jokes can be harmless when everyone involved is comfortable with them, but repeated comments can also become irritating or hurtful. The difference often depends on context and the relationship between the people involved. Like jokes about many other physical characteristics, comments about baldness can cross a line when they are intended to embarrass or insult someone.
Interestingly, baldness can sometimes become an important part of a person’s recognisable appearance. People may associate a distinctive bald hairstyle or shaved head with a particular public figure. In these situations, hair loss is no longer something hidden or embarrassing; it becomes part of the person’s visual identity. This illustrates how strongly humans adapt to appearances. A characteristic that initially seems unusual can become completely ordinary once people become accustomed to it.
There is also an important distinction between baldness and other causes of hair loss. Male pattern baldness is common and usually develops gradually, but sudden or unusual hair loss can have different causes. Stress, nutritional problems, certain illnesses, medications, and other conditions can affect hair growth. Therefore, someone experiencing unexpected or rapid hair loss should not automatically assume that it is ordinary male pattern baldness. A healthcare professional can help determine whether there is an underlying cause.
For men who are losing their hair, social support can make a difference. Friends and family members may not realise that casual comments about someone’s appearance can affect their confidence. Being respectful does not mean treating baldness as something tragic. Instead, it means recognising that people have different feelings about their appearance. Some men may not care about hair loss at all, while others may need time to adjust to it.
Ultimately, baldness is neither inherently positive nor negative. It is a physical characteristic that has different meanings for different people. Biology determines much of whether and when a man loses his hair, but society influences how that change is interpreted. A bald man can be young or old, confident or shy, athletic or academic, funny or serious, successful or unsuccessful. Hair—or the absence of it—does not determine personality.
The changing perception of bald men reflects a broader change in society’s understanding of appearance. Modern culture increasingly recognises that there is no single correct way for a man to look. Some people enjoy experimenting with hairstyles, while others prefer a simple appearance. Some embrace natural hair loss, while others explore ways to change it. All of these approaches can be valid when they are freely chosen.
In conclusion, baldness is a fascinating subject because it connects biology with culture, psychology, fashion, and social expectations. For many men, losing hair is simply a natural part of life. For others, it can be an important personal experience that affects their confidence and identity. History shows that attitudes toward baldness have varied considerably, proving that there is nothing universal about the way people interpret hair loss. Although stereotypes continue to exist, they do not define bald men as individuals.
Perhaps the most important lesson is that a person’s appearance should not be treated as a measure of their worth. Hair can be an enjoyable part of personal style, but it is only one small aspect of someone’s identity. Whether a man has a full head of hair, a receding hairline, a shaved head, or is completely bald, the same qualities that matter most—character, kindness, intelligence, humour, determination, and individuality—remain independent of how much hair is on his head. Baldness may change someone’s appearance, but it does not determine who they are.
Baldness is often treated as something that a person should be embarrassed about, something that needs to be hidden, corrected, or fought against. Society places enormous importance on appearance, especially hair, and from a young age we are taught that thick, healthy hair represents youth, beauty, and confidence. Because of this, losing hair can sometimes feel like losing a part of one’s identity. However, I strongly agree with the person who writes about baldness from a place of honesty and acceptance. I believe that baldness is not something that makes a person less attractive, less valuable, or less worthy of love. In fact, learning to accept baldness can be an important expression of self-confidence and self-love.
When I read someone’s thoughts about baldness, I understand why the subject can carry so much emotional weight. Hair is not simply a physical feature. For many people, it is connected to memories, personality, culture, and the way they see themselves. Losing it can therefore bring feelings of sadness, insecurity, or fear. A person may look in the mirror and feel that the reflection is different from the person they remember. They may wonder whether other people will judge them or whether they will still be considered attractive. These feelings are completely understandable. We should not dismiss them by simply saying that appearance does not matter. Appearance can affect confidence, and confidence can affect many parts of life.
At the same time, I agree with the idea that baldness does not have to be viewed negatively. A bald head can be attractive, distinctive, and full of character. Many people who are bald carry themselves with a confidence that makes them especially appealing. Their appearance becomes part of who they are rather than something they feel compelled to hide. There is something powerful about a person who can look at themselves honestly and say, “This is me, and I am comfortable being myself.”
For me, this is where love becomes particularly important. Loving someone means seeing beyond the features that society tells us to value. It means appreciating the whole person: their kindness, humor, intelligence, patience, vulnerability, strength, and the way they make us feel when we are together. Hair may change throughout a person’s life, but the qualities that make us love someone can be much deeper and more lasting. If I love someone who is bald, their lack of hair does not reduce that love in any way. I would not want them to believe that they need to change their appearance to deserve affection.
I also believe that loving someone means accepting the things they may initially struggle to accept about themselves. If a person feels insecure about becoming bald, the answer should not be to make them feel ashamed. Instead, they deserve reassurance, understanding, and encouragement. They should know that their value has not disappeared simply because their hair has. A loving partner or friend can remind them that they are still the same person, with the same qualities that made them special in the first place.
The person writing about baldness may be expressing feelings that many others experience but are afraid to discuss. I agree with their honesty because it is important to challenge the idea that people must always look young or fit a particular standard of beauty. Human beings naturally change as they grow older. Hair becomes thinner, skin changes, bodies change, and faces develop new lines. These changes are not failures. They are evidence that we are living, growing, and experiencing life.
There is also an important difference between accepting baldness and pretending that it never affects someone emotionally. Acceptance does not mean that a person is forbidden from feeling sad. It means that those feelings do not have to control their identity. Someone can wish they had more hair and still love themselves. They can experiment with different hairstyles, shave their head, wear a hat, or simply allow their hair to change naturally. The important thing is that their choices come from themselves rather than from the belief that they are somehow inadequate.
I find this attitude deeply admirable. There is courage in being honest about something that makes you vulnerable. Writing about baldness can open a conversation about confidence, aging, attractiveness, and self-worth. It can help people realize that they are not alone in their insecurities. More importantly, it can encourage us to become kinder toward ourselves and toward other people.
If I love a bald person, I want them to understand that I love them as they are. I do not see their baldness as something that needs to be overlooked or tolerated. It is simply one part of their appearance, just as their eyes, smile, voice, or height are parts of who they are. I can appreciate their baldness without making it the entire definition of their identity. What matters most to me is the person underneath the appearance.
Love should not depend on perfection. In fact, the idea of perfection is often an obstacle to genuine love because it encourages us to constantly search for something better or different. Real love involves seeing a person honestly and choosing to appreciate them, including the changes that come with time. If someone’s hair disappears, their ability to love, laugh, care, dream, and make another person happy does not disappear with it.
Ultimately, I agree with the message that baldness should not be a source of shame. It can be a natural part of life and, for some people, even a defining and attractive feature. More importantly, no physical characteristic should determine whether a person deserves love. A person deserves to be loved because they are human, because they have a heart and a personality, and because of the unique qualities they bring into someone else’s life.
To love someone who is bald is therefore not about loving them despite their baldness. It is about loving them completely, without allowing society’s narrow ideas of beauty to determine their worth. If anything, accepting baldness can teach us a larger lesson: that genuine beauty comes from authenticity, confidence, kindness, and connection. Hair can change, but love can remain. And when we learn to see people for who they truly are rather than for what they look like, we discover a much deeper and more meaningful kind of beauty.
# An Extremely Serious Poem to Mr Anonymous
## Ode to the Mysterious Legend
Dear Mr Anonymous,
a name without a name,
a shadow in the hallway,
a whisper without fame.
Who are you?
Nobody knows.
Where did you come from?
Nobody can disclose.
You arrived like a mystery,
quiet as the moon,
yet somehow every room
seemed brighter when you came through.
You possess the ancient power
of being impossible to identify.
A face? Unknown.
A surname? Classified.
A middle name?
Probably classified twice.
And yet, Mr Anonymous,
despite your secrecy,
you have somehow become
a figure of great importance to me.
Not because of romance,
not because of fame,
but because whenever you appear,
something entertaining happens
and absolutely nobody
knows who is to blame.
You are mysterious.
You are legendary.
You are approximately
seventy percent question mark
and thirty percent confusion.
If Sherlock Holmes met you,
he’d probably take one look
at your completely anonymous identity
and quietly close his notebook.
If detectives searched for you,
they would find nothing.
If historians investigated you,
they would discover rumours.
If scientists studied you,
they would publish a paper entitled:
**”Mr Anonymous:
We Have No Idea What Is Happening.”**
And honestly?
Respect.
—
## The Case of Mr Anonymous
There are ordinary people.
There are extraordinary people.
And then there is you:
Mr Anonymous.
You cannot simply walk into a room.
No.
You must **arrive**.
You must create an atmosphere.
You must cause at least three people
to turn around and ask:
“Who is that?”
And the answer?
Nobody knows.
The mystery grows.
The legend expands.
The evidence disappears.
The witnesses become confused.
And somewhere,
probably in a dusty office
underneath an even dustier lamp,
a detective writes:
> “Subject remains anonymous.”
And closes the file.
Because what else can they do?
Your anonymity is too powerful.
It is not merely a lack of information.
It is an art form.
A lifestyle.
A philosophy.
A commitment.
Most people spend their lives
trying to become known.
You?
You have achieved the opposite.
You have become **unknown**
with such incredible dedication
that it has somehow made you memorable.
That is talent.
That is commitment.
That is Mr Anonymous.
—
## A Friendship of Great Importance
Now, Mr Anonymous,
I must clarify something.
This poem is not romantic.
There shall be no candlelit declarations.
No dramatic orchestral music.
No staring deeply into one another’s eyes
while rain falls dramatically in the background.
Absolutely not.
Instead,
I offer something far more powerful:
**friendship.**
The kind of friendship
where someone sends you a completely pointless message
at exactly the wrong time.
The kind where you can spend ten minutes
arguing about something
that neither person actually understands.
The kind where one person says,
“Trust me.”
And the other immediately replies,
“I absolutely do not.”
That is friendship.
True friendship is not necessarily elegant.
Sometimes it is chaotic.
Sometimes it is ridiculous.
Sometimes it consists entirely
of sending each other nonsense
until one person finally says,
“What are we even doing?”
And the answer is:
Nobody knows.
Especially not Mr Anonymous.
—
## The Great Qualities of Mr Anonymous
Let us now list your achievements.
You are mysterious.
You are confusing.
You are probably somewhere.
You have a name.
We think.
You exist.
Presumably.
You have somehow inspired
a 3,000-word poem.
That alone should probably
be added to your résumé.
Under “Achievements,”
you may now write:
**”Inspired an unnecessarily long poem.”**
Under “Skills,”
you may write:
**”Remaining anonymous.”**
Under “Experience,”
you may write:
**”Being Mr Anonymous.”**
And under “References,”
simply put:
**”Nobody knows.”**
Perfect.
—
## The Legendary Partnership Proposal
And now, Mr Anonymous,
we arrive at the most important moment.
The proposal.
But not a romantic proposal.
No.
Something far more practical.
Something far more sensible.
Something far more financially questionable.
Mr Anonymous…
Will you…
**enter into a completely unofficial,
legally meaningless,
highly questionable friendship partnership with me?**
I promise:
To provide unnecessary commentary.
To laugh at jokes that are not funny.
To send messages that make absolutely no sense.
To defend your anonymous reputation.
To refuse to reveal your secret identity.
To support your mysterious lifestyle.
To participate in conversations
that somehow begin normally
and end with complete nonsense.
I offer you:
One friendship.
Zero romance.
Unlimited chaos.
And absolutely no paperwork.
—
## Terms and Conditions
By accepting this proposal,
Mr Anonymous agrees to the following:
### Rule One
You must remain mysterious.
This is essential.
If you suddenly reveal everything,
the entire brand collapses.
### Rule Two
You must occasionally say something
so confusing that everyone else
needs approximately fourteen minutes
to understand it.
### Rule Three
You must never underestimate
the power of a stupid joke.
### Rule Four
If either person says,
“Wait, listen…”
the other person must prepare
for something completely ridiculous.
### Rule Five
If an argument begins
over something insignificant,
both parties must eventually realise
that neither person remembers
how the argument started.
### Rule Six
The friendship shall remain
completely free from unnecessary drama.
Unless the drama is funny.
In which case,
carry on.
### Rule Seven
Mr Anonymous must preserve
the sacred mystery
of being Mr Anonymous.
Failure to comply
may result in immediate investigation
by the Department of Extremely Serious Mysteries.
—
## The Department of Extremely Serious Mysteries
I have founded this department
specifically for you.
Its headquarters are unknown.
Its employees are unknown.
Its budget is unknown.
Its purpose is unknown.
Its opening hours are unknown.
And, quite appropriately,
its director is anonymous.
The department investigates:
Missing socks.
Suspicious sandwiches.
Unexplained noises.
People who say “I’ll be there in five minutes”
and arrive twenty minutes later.
The mysterious disappearance
of pens from classrooms.
Why chargers vanish
the exact moment they are needed.
And, most importantly:
**Who exactly is Mr Anonymous?**
Unfortunately,
after years of research,
the department has reached
the following conclusion:
“We don’t know.”
A groundbreaking discovery.
—
## A Toast to Friendship
So let us raise an imaginary glass.
Not of anything inappropriate.
Perhaps lemonade.
Or orange juice.
Or water.
To Mr Anonymous.
To mystery.
To friendship.
To ridiculous conversations.
To inside jokes.
To moments that make absolutely no sense
but somehow become unforgettable.
To the people who make ordinary days
slightly less ordinary.
To the people who can turn
five minutes of free time
into an entire adventure.
To the people who don’t need
a grand reason to laugh.
To the people who remind us
that life doesn’t always have to be serious.
And, most importantly,
to the mysterious individual
known only as:
**Mr Anonymous**
MODERATOR WARNING — THIS ENDS NOW
The continued posting of articles, essays, and other material about baldness in the comment section is unacceptable. This is not a debate, and it is not something we will continue tolerating.
You have been warned. Stop posting this material immediately. Comments that are irrelevant, repetitive, disruptive, or deliberately posted to provoke others will be removed without discussion.
Any further attempt to ignore this warning, derail discussions, spam the comments, or circumvent moderation will result in immediate loss of commenting privileges and a permanent ban. We reserve the right to take action without further warnings or extended explanations.
Do not mistake the fact that you have been given warnings for weakness. Moderation decisions are final, and we will enforce the site’s rules consistently.
This is your last warning. Keep your contributions relevant, or lose your access to the comment section.
We don’t want to get the police involved.
Serious Regards,
Susan xx
Listen up bossman Susan,
I’ve seen your message telling me to “stop misbehaving,” and respectfully… be so for real right now.
I have reviewed the allegations, consulted absolutely nobody, conducted a completely unbiased investigation into my own behaviour, and reached the only reasonable conclusion:
I am innocent. The allegations are giving misinformation.
What you call “misbehaviour,” I call having aura.
What you call “disruption,” I call community engagement.
What you call “being annoying,” I call keeping the server from being dry.
You’re looking at the situation through a moderator lens, Susan. I’m looking at it through the lens of someone who is simply standing on business.
And before you hit me with the classic “rules are rules” argument, let me remind you that technically speaking, I have not broken the laws of physics, mathematics, or basic international diplomacy. Therefore, I believe my case should be dismissed.
I also find it slightly concerning that you expect me to simply “stop.”
Stop what, Susan?
Being funny?
Being iconic?
Providing free entertainment?
Creating moments that will undoubtedly be discussed for generations?
Be serious.
Without my contributions, this place would have the entertainment value of an unseasoned piece of toast.
I am not the problem.
I am the plot development.
I am the unexpected update nobody asked for but everybody secretly needed.
I am the reason the moderators have something to do.
And honestly, telling me to stop is kinda crazy work.
That being said, I am willing to negotiate.
I will reduce my alleged misbehaviour by approximately 3.7%, provided that you acknowledge that I have been unfairly persecuted for the crime of possessing too much comedic potential.
This is my final offer.
No cap.
If you wish to escalate this matter, please contact my completely legitimate legal representatives at +1 555-0147.
They are currently unavailable because they do not exist.
But neither, apparently, does the evidence against me.
Thank you for your understanding.
Stay safe, stay hydrated, and please reconsider your allegations before you get cooked in the appeals process.
Respectfully,
A Completely Innocent Citizen Who Has Been Framed by the Susan Administration
P.S. If your immediate response is “This is exactly why you’re being told to stop,” I regret to inform you that you have just provided Exhibit A for my defence.
👌
I have now personally reviewed this matter, including your response to my good friend Susan.
Let me be absolutely clear: this behavior stops now.
Susan was acting in her capacity as a moderator and gave you a reasonable instruction to stop posting inappropriate and off-topic material. Instead of respecting that instruction, you chose to mock her and continue the behavior. That is unacceptable.
You are not being asked to agree with moderation decisions. You are being required to follow the rules of this site.
Any further inappropriate, harassing, disruptive, or deliberately provocative conduct will result in an immediate ban. You will not receive endless warnings, negotiations, or opportunities to turn moderation into another joke.
If your conduct escalates into threats, harassment, or any other potentially unlawful behavior, we will preserve the relevant evidence and, where appropriate, report the matter to the police and/or the relevant governing or professional board.
I sincerely hope that will not be necessary.
This is your final opportunity to simply stop, respect the moderators, and participate appropriately. If you choose to continue, you will lose access to this community.
There will be no further debate about this warning.
Jay Williams
Author & Site Owner