What Is ‘The Belly Button Challenge’ And Why Is Everyone Doing It?

Is it just a bit of fun, or yet another way women are made to feel their bodies are inadequate?

What Is 'The Belly Button Challenge' And Why Is Everyone Doing It?

by Abi Wilkinson |
Published on

There's a brand-new way to show off on social media, and it's called 'the belly button challenge'. Starting out on Chinese social network Weibo, in the past few days the craze has swept across the English-speaking online world. The aim is to reach your arm behind your back and touch your belly button from the opposite side. Those who successfully complete the task must post a picture as proof.

While most of those participating seem to see it as just a bit of fun, some commentators have warned that the challenge could promote unrealistic beauty standards and even eating disorders. Certainly, having a very slim waist does make it easier to do, and most of the photos posted online feature slender women. However, not everyone who has managed to complete the belly button challenge is thinner than average. It seems that having proportionately longer arms and flexible joints also helps a lot.

belly-button-challenge2

When we tried it The Debrief office some of us could manage it and some couldn't – but none of us are taking it as a sign our bodies aren't good enough in some way. We are considering doing a few stretches and trying again later, though!

Like this? Then you might also be interested in:

The Politics Of Posting Your Bikini Pictures On Social Media

Armpit Hair Competition Is Big News In China Right Now

Those Face Editing Apps Could Be Really Bad For You

This article originally appeared on The Debrief.

Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us