It's likely your collarbones aren't visible despite being skinny due to genetics or low muscle mass in the upper chest and shoulder area.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Genetics Play a Role:
- Everyone's body is different, and the prominence of your bones is largely determined by genetics. Some people simply have a body structure where the collarbones are less visible, even at a low body weight. The underlying bone structure, the way fat is distributed on your body, and the thickness of your skin can all contribute to this.
- You might have a lower percentage of subcutaneous fat in other areas, making you appear "skinny," but have enough fat around your collarbone area to obscure it.
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Lack of Muscle Tone:
- The muscles in your upper chest (pectoralis major) and shoulders (deltoids) influence the visibility of your collarbones. If these muscles are underdeveloped, there will be less definition, making the bones less prominent.
- Building muscle in these areas can help define the collarbone area, even if you don't significantly gain weight.
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Body Fat Distribution:
- Even if you are generally thin, your body may store a slightly higher percentage of fat in your upper chest and neck area. This can obscure the collarbones.
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Other Possibilities (Less Likely):
- Swelling: In rare cases, localized swelling could be obscuring the collarbones. However, this is usually accompanied by other symptoms like pain or redness. If you suspect swelling, consult a doctor.
What You Can Do:
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Build Muscle: Focus on exercises that target the chest and shoulders, such as:
- Push-ups
- Bench press (with dumbbells or barbell)
- Dumbbell flyes
- Shoulder press
- Lateral raises
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Nutrition: Ensure you are consuming enough protein to support muscle growth.
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Consult a Professional: If you are concerned about your body composition or have other health concerns, consult a doctor or registered dietitian. They can assess your overall health and provide personalized advice.
In summary, your collarbones may not be visible despite being thin due to a combination of genetics, body fat distribution, and muscle development. Building muscle in your upper chest and shoulders can potentially make them more defined.
