Or Spider-Man. A recent study found that men who spend time thinking about these superheroes had better body images. And, that increased confidence can help you get over the anxiety that you feel when approaching women you like.

In the study, men were asked to study pictures of Batman and Spider-Man shown with muscular physiques. They were told that this was part of a memory-building study. After, the men who said that they were fans of the superheroes expressed more positive feelings about their own bodies than those who were not fans of the superheroes. They also showed extra strength in grip tests.

The cause is what is known as a parasocial relationship. People feel a sort of kinship with characters that they like. This feeling makes you identify with the character, and ascribe some of the qualities that that character has to yourself. This does not apply just to these superheroes; you could get the same sort of boost from meditating on any strong character that you identify with. Batman and Spider-Man are particularly good models because the characters include a degree of male vulnerability that make them especially relatable.

How can you bring this advantage to your dating life?

Take her to a superhero movie. The action on the screen can make you feel more confident of your own abilities and worth. That confidence makes conversation or making romantic moves easier for you. Plus, if you are both fans, it gives you a great conversation topic to chat about after the movie.

Watch your favorite superhero show before heading out to socialize. Concentrate on the ways that the characters overcame obstacles or exhibited the sort of ease and charm that you wish to show while you are out.

Keep a gallery on your computer of superhero photos. Yes, it can feel a bit silly. But, the science shows that just looking at images of the superheroes you admire can help increase your confidence and your self-esteem.

Photo: JD Hancock