If you’ve ever noticed two small indentations on the lower back, just above the buttocks, you might have wondered what they mean. These little hollows are often called “Venus dimples” in women and “Apollo dimples” in men. For centuries, they have intrigued both scientists and the general public. Some see them as symbols of beauty, while others believe they indicate good health or even genetic fortune. But the real mystery remains: why do only some people have them while others don’t?

Back dimples form where the skin connects directly to deeper structures through a short ligament. They sit right above the sacroiliac joints—the point where the pelvis meets the spine. Unlike toned muscles or fat distribution, these dimples are not something you can build in the gym. They are linked to the natural way your body is structured. In simple terms, whether or not you have them is mostly decided before you are born.

One of the main reasons only certain people develop back dimples is genetics. They are considered an inherited trait, meaning if your parents have them, you’re more likely to as well. Scientists suggest that the placement of ligaments and overall skeletal alignment varies among individuals. For some, this variation creates visible indentations. For others, the ligaments are positioned differently, and no dimples appear at all.

While genetics play the biggest role, your body shape can also affect how noticeable these dimples are. People with a leaner build or lower body fat often display the dimples more clearly. On the other hand, someone who carries more fat in the lower back region may still have them but won’t see them as prominently. This explains why athletes, dancers, or fitness enthusiasts often appear to have more defined back dimples.

There are plenty of myths surrounding back dimples. Some people claim they mean better blood circulation, higher fertility, or even improved physical performance. Others believe they add to sexual attraction or enhance pleasure. While these stories are interesting, science doesn’t strongly support them. What we do know for sure is that back dimples are harmless and do not affect health. They are simply a neutral feature of the human body.

Across cultures and throughout history, back dimples have been admired. During the Renaissance, artists often highlighted them in sculptures and paintings as a mark of feminine beauty. Even today, they are sometimes considered attractive because they emphasize the curves of the lower back and hips. Their rarity also makes them stand out, adding to their charm and mystique.

Because of their popularity, many people wonder if they can “get” back dimples through exercise. Unfortunately, since they are the result of ligament placement rather than muscle structure, no workout can create them if your body isn’t naturally built that way. However, exercises that strengthen the core and reduce body fat can make existing dimples appear more noticeable and defined.

Final Thoughts

Back dimples are one of those fascinating features that spark curiosity. Whether you have them or not is mostly determined by your genetics and anatomy, not your lifestyle. While they don’t offer proven health benefits, they are often admired as a symbol of beauty, uniqueness, and individuality. If you have them, it’s simply a reflection of how your body is naturally designed. And if you don’t, it doesn’t mean anything is wrong—your body just expresses its beauty in different ways.