Fans have just learnt why footballers have ‘curved legs’, the reason is fascinating

Fans have just learnt why football players have 'curved legs' - and the reason for it is fascinating.

When football players stand and look directly at a camera you may be able to spot a level of extension between both legs, which are sometimes classified professionally as 'bow legs'.

There are differences, with some knees bending slightly inwards, and some bending slightly outwards. There are also a number of factors as to why this happens.

'Curved legs' are not limited to a certain profile of player, either - as a new TikTok video posted by Train Effective Official shows.

Fans learn why footballers have 'curved legs'

The main reason for 'curved legs' in footballers, as per the video, is because of the growth and body development of a player from as early as the age of 12.

Because players generally put substantial amounts of pressure on their knees - and, in particular, on one side of the knee - the overload created causes a change in the angle of the shin bone.

This causes the player's legs to grow outwards.

The impact or extent of 'curved legs', however, does depend on individual factors, including genetics and how a player looks after their body at a young age.

But studies have reportedly shown that footballers' legs are far more likely to grow outwards by up to 15mm than someone who does not play football at a young age.

Upon making the discovery, a number of TikTok users replied stating that they have suffered from 'curved legs', with others adding their surprise at finding out.

One wrote: "Been playing football from childhood, not a pro but quite a lot, figures."

Another said: "Bro all this time I was thinking I was sick or something thanks."

And a third added: "I've got that, and also my left leg is a lot more defined than my right because it's my planting leg when shooting."

Others, meanwhile, noticed that their knees were similar from playing sports other than football growing up.

One commented: "I have this as a hockey player as well."

And another wrote: "I thought I was the only one that had them, I play football and basketball."