If you have these two holes in your back, it means you dont!

If you’ve ever noticed two small indentations on the lower back, right above the buttocks, you might have wondered what they mean. These tiny hollows are commonly known as “dimples of Venus” in women and “Apollo dimples” in men. Medically, they are referred to as sacral or lumbosacral dimples. They have fascinated people for centuries, not only because of their unique appearance but also because of the myths and truths surrounding them.

These dimples are located at the point where the pelvis and spine connect, right at the posterior superior iliac spine. They form because the skin in that region is attached directly to the underlying ligaments, creating a natural indentation. Some consider them a symbol of beauty, health, and vitality. In fact, the name “dimples of Venus” originates from the Roman goddess of love, Venus, associating the feature with attractiveness and fertility.

For a long time, it was widely believed that these dimples were purely genetic—you were either born with them or you weren’t. Parents with prominent back dimples often noticed them appearing in their children as well. However, more recent research suggests the story is a little more complex. While genetics play an important role, lifestyle factors such as body fat percentage, muscle tone, and overall fitness also determine how visible these dimples become. People with lower body fat and strong muscle definition around the glutes and lower back are more likely to have noticeable dimples. This means that even if you weren’t born with clearly defined ones, it is sometimes possible to accentuate them through targeted exercise and body conditioning.

Can someone develop them later in life? The answer is yes, to an extent. Fitness experts explain that while the actual bony structure of the pelvis plays a role, fat loss and strengthening the surrounding muscles can enhance their appearance. In particular, building muscle tone in the glutes, lower back, and core can make these dimples stand out more prominently. This is why they are often more visible in athletes, dancers, and individuals who maintain low body fat combined with muscular definition.

So, what exercises can help? A number of workouts target the key muscles around this area. Back extensions, also known as hyperextensions, strengthen the erector spinae muscles, giving more structure to the lower back. Deadlifts, one of the most effective compound movements, engage the entire posterior chain, including hamstrings, glutes, and lower back, all of which help create definition. Glute bridges and hip thrusts directly target the glutes, lifting and shaping them to enhance the area where the dimples form. Planks and side planks strengthen the core, providing stability to the spine and improving muscle tone in the midsection. The “Superman” exercise, where you lie face down and lift both arms and legs off the ground, directly strengthens the lower back muscles, further defining the area around the dimples.

Aside from aesthetics, some health experts note that visible back dimples are sometimes associated with good circulation in the pelvic region, though this is more of an observation than a medically proven fact. Unlike other dimples that can appear on the body, such as on the cheeks, these lower back indentations do not indicate any health problems. They are harmless and, in many cases, simply a natural variation of human anatomy.

Culturally, the dimples have taken on different meanings. In some traditions, they are seen as symbols of luck, sensuality, and attractiveness. Many people even seek ways to emphasize them, with some going as far as cosmetic procedures to create artificial dimples. However, most fitness trainers argue that a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, and consistent exercise remain the best ways to highlight natural body features, including these small but eye-catching indentations.

It is important to remember that not everyone can or will develop them, no matter how fit they become. Since bone structure plays a role, some people simply won’t have noticeable back dimples, even at very low levels of body fat. That doesn’t mean they are any less healthy or attractive. Human bodies come in a wide variety of shapes and features, and back dimples are just one of many natural quirks that some people are born with.

In modern times, social media has made these dimples a trending topic, with countless posts and fitness influencers talking about them as desirable features. But like all body trends, it’s essential to approach them with perspective. They may look appealing to some, but their absence doesn’t mean there is anything wrong. What truly matters is maintaining a strong, healthy body that allows you to move with energy and confidence.

If you do want to emphasize your dimples of Venus or Apollo dimples, focus on building strength in the lower back and core, reduce excess body fat through a balanced diet and cardio exercise, and stay consistent with workouts that target the glutes and posterior chain. Even if the dimples themselves don’t become visible, you will still benefit from improved posture, stronger muscles, and better overall health.

In the end, these dimples are just one of many fascinating variations of human anatomy. Some people wear them naturally, others work hard to bring them out, and some will never have them no matter what. What remains true is that they are harmless, sometimes alluring, and often a symbol of strength and vitality. Whether or not you have them, what makes you truly attractive is not a pair of small indentations on your back but the confidence and health you carry with you every day.