Body Types

There are three basic body types, and knowing which type you are will help you create a more effective workout routine and eating plan.

Ectomorphic - Ectomorphs have slender frames, low body fat, and fast metabolisms. They tend to have muscles that are long and thin, especially in the arms and legs.

Some ectomorphs are actually too thin and have a desire to increase muscle mass and gain weight. They need to consume plenty of daily calories and be careful not to do too much aerobic exercise. Their weight lifting routine should consist primarily of free weight exercises using heavy weights and low repetitions.

Mesomorphic - Mesomorphs have muscular, athletic bodies with wide shoulders, narrow waists, low body fat, and quick metabolisms. They build muscle and lose fat rapidly.

Because they are naturally muscular and low in body fat, mesomorphs often get by with infrequent workouts and improper diets. Mesomorphs need to make sure that exercise and healthy eating are consistent parts of their lifestyle.

Almost any type of aerobic exercise works well for mesomorphs. Their weight lifting routine should consist of moderate to heavy weights and moderate repetitions.

Endomorphic - Endomorphs have stocky frames, high body fat, and slow metabolisms. They build muscle easily, but have trouble losing fat. Healthy eating by itself is not enough for most endomorphs to lose fat, they must also exercise.

Endomorphs need to eat five or six small healthy meals throughout the day and limit their intake of carbohydrates. Low-impact aerobic exercise (treadmill, exercise bike etc.) done five or six times a week works well for endomorphs. Their weight lifting routine should consist of moderate weights and moderate to high repetitions.

Many people are a combination of body types. For example, someone may primarily be an ectomorph but also have some characteristics of a mesomorph.

Understanding your body type will help you have realistic fitness expectations and set attainable fitness goals.

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