As we approach Men’s Health Week 2026 we’ve been talking a lot about standing (or just being) “shoulder to shoulder”.
It’s a guy thing.
You’ve probably noticed it yourself – we tend to open up more and even learn more when side-to-side with someone rather than face-to-face.
Think about the things men enjoy and bond over. Fishing, hunting, work, playing sport, watching a game, helping a mate build the deck…. the most natural stance is shoulder-to-shoulder.
It’s called “action orientated communication” and men feel ok about being more upfront when there’s shared activity, and it seems to go even better and deeper without that direct eye contact intensity.
Well it turns out there’s science behind it, and it’s down to eye contact.
Research shows direct eye contact activates the amygdala, the part in our brain that processes fear and threats. Back in our evolutionary history, direct gaze was considered a sign of confrontation. Fast forward to the 21st century and that instinct still remains and can trigger discomfort and a feeling of being under scrutiny.
Which is why shoulder to shoulder sits more naturally and comfortably with us.
When men walk side by side, our eyes are forward as we head in the same direction; you don’t feel you’re being put on the spot and conversations seem easier.
Even better, it is well proven the walking both reduces stress and stimulates both sides of the brain which helps emotional processing and problem solving. When we are moving physically, it seems to unlock a willingness to move forward emotionally too.
Shoulder to shoulder is how we get things done and how we get things out. Think about your own experiences and the times when it felt easier to talk, to share health or life concerns. Bet you were were doing something, anything, shoulder to shoulder with a mate.
Men’s Health Week – let’s put our shoulder into it guys.
