FOR THOSE of us enjoying the Olympic Games from the comfort of our sofas, it has so far been a mainly enjoyable celebration of human physical and mental prowess.

We thrill at the feats of skill, speed and endurance while admiring — and for many of us envying — the superbly toned forms and rippling muscles that dash, leap or swim across our screens.

The bulging muscles of French swimmer Florent Manaudou sent US commentator and former Olympic swimmer, Rowdy Gaines, into paroxysms of awe. A number of male athletes on Italy’s Olympic team may have boosted tourism among single women.