The mystery of irregular migrants' physique: genetics, selection or myth?

The mystery of irregular migrants' physique: genetics, selection or myth?

A neighbour watches from his balcony: the young men occupying the former bank branch look like they walked out of a gym, yet they live on junk food and juice cartons. The scene, repeated in neighbourhoods across Spain, has reignited an uncomfortable debate: why do so many migrants in an irregular situation show a musculature that contradicts their precarious circumstances?

The explanations range from the genetic to the conspiratorial. An analysis of the theories trying to make sense of the phenomenon.

Genetics and natural selection: the Darwinian factor

One of the most frequently repeated hypotheses appeals to natural selection: only the strongest and most resilient individuals manage to complete the migration routes from sub-Saharan Africa. The journey across the Sahara, armed conflicts and exposure to disease would filter out the weakest. Added to this is a genetic basis: it is argued that certain African populations have a higher density of muscle fibres and higher natural testosterone levels, combined with a lower incidence of endocrine disruptors in their countries of origin compared with the Western environment.

The other side of the coin: hard life, hard body

Another school of thought points out that the physique is not a genetic gift but the result of a life of physical effort from childhood: kilometre-long walks to school, farm work, hauling water. In the West, that same effort is achieved by paying for a gym membership; there, it is survival. Those who defend this view note that after a generation in the United States, the descendants of these migrants tend to show high rates of obesity and diabetes, suggesting that the Western lifestyle is the real enemy.

The military theory: soldiers in disguise?

A darker version circulates among those who see these muscular bodies as proof of an orchestrated plan: many migrants would be former militiamen or members of African armed groups, trained from childhood. Videos are even mentioned showing them doing group exercises inside industrial warehouses in Spain. Although most dismiss these theories for lack of evidence, the unease persists.

Substances and rest: the profile of forced leisure

Some point to the use of captagon, a stimulant common in conflict zones, or to so-called SARMs (selective androgen receptor modulators). Others explain it more simply: with no formal employment, they have plenty of time to rest and train, something a worker on a split shift can hardly afford.

Perception vs. reality

Some argue it is a mirage: the migrants we see are the ones who made it, not those who were left behind along the way. They also point out that apparent muscular development does not always translate into real strength — as a gym veteran puts it: "they look imposing, but they lift less weight than I do".

The debate, as usual, mixes biased data with real observations. Science offers no single answer, but it does offer one fact: the physique of those who arrive is no accident, but the result of a complex combination of biology, environment and, perhaps, a dash of urban legend.