NoBODY is the same.

The importance of knowing your body type.

Many people with little fitness experience tend to follow the status quo when it comes to how to achieve their fitness goal(s). Whether that be the same meal-prep tips, the same workout videos, or the same machines at the gym- most inexperienced fitness enthusiasts tend to do the things that they have to hear works for other people. When you put this into perspective, you’ll realize that this is the easiest way to set yourself up for disappointment. For example, we all have a ridiculously blessed friend who’s metabolism has a horse-power engine. They might be in the best shape to you when you look at them, but the way that they eat each day should not be mirrored in you because perhaps you easily gain weight. Why would you try to copy how they eat? Or, maybe you have a cousin that easily packs on muscle. Perhaps they can spend a week core-training and come out of that week with a new six-pack after months of slacking. Why would you take advice on the best workouts from them, or watch their workout videos when you are not the same?

Now, don’t get me wrong… fitness enthusiasts come in all shapes and sizes, and those with a specialized certification in physical training and/or nutrition can definitely lead you down the right path should you need advice. I’m more so advising you not to simply watch and do. Do not blindly follow the high-level advice from individuals that are on a different playing field than you. In order to receive the highest quality nutritional and physical fitness advice, it’s best to consult certified professionals. Perhaps you don’t have the funds to receive these types of services, no problem. Stick around on my blog for a bit, I’ll drop gems every now and then because I believe that knowledge should be accessible for everyone despite all material circumstances. With that being said, let’s take a look at the three somatotypes (body-types) and fitness tips for each.

• Somatotype - a category to which people are assigned according to the extent to which their bodily physique conforms to a basic type.

Mesomorph

Mesomorphs are typically strong and solid, not overweight or underweight. Mesomorphs may have no trouble eating what they want to eat, as they may lose weight easily. On the flip side, they may gain weight just as readily.

Characteristics of a Mesomorph

• square-shaped head

• ability to lose and gain weight easily

• strong legs

• muscular arms and legs

• even weight distribution

Fitness Tips for Mesomorphs

• Diets should be high in proteins with less emphasis on carbs to keep body-fat percentages low.

• Mesomorphs who are looking to lean out should consider 30 - 45 minutes of cardio 3x a week.

• To build muscle, focus on weight-training 4x a week.

• Weight training should focus on more reps and fewer weights.

Ectomorph

An ectomorph is characterized by a small frame size and little body fat. People who have this body type may be long and lean with little muscle mass. They may have difficulty gaining weight and muscle no matter what they eat or do in the gym.

Characteristics of an Ectomorph

• Tall, Skinny, and Lean

• Small bone structures

• Narrow hands and feet

• Long limbs

• Slow weight gain

Fitness Tips for Mesomorphs

• The best diet would be higher in carbohydrates and calories.

• For weight gain, consider calorie-dense foods - protein powder smoothies, bagels, avocados, etc.

• Eat more meals, frequently - every 3-4 hours.

• Weight training should be focused on fewer reps and higher weights.

Endomorph

Characterized by higher body fat and less muscle, endomorphs may appear round and soft. They may also put on pounds more easily.

Characteristics of an Endomorph

• Round body.

• Soft at the touch, very little muscle mass.

• Large bone structure - “big-boned”.

• Difficulty losing fat.

Fitness Tips for Endomorphs

• The best diet would be higher in protein and healthy fats and lower in carbs.

• For weight loss, consider cutting your calories down each day by 500.

• For weight loss, consider intermittent fasting in your lifestyle.

• Train with a mixture of cardio and high-intensity intervals.

Q: Can I be more than one body type at once?

• Answer: YES! Most people usually lean to one of the three body types more than the others but it is definitely possible to be two out of the three or all three combined. This is called “combination body types”.

Q: Are Samototypes genetic?

• Answer: YES! Studies show that your genes affect 80% of your weight and body shape. However, this does not mean that you are destined to be skinny or larger, your environment, efforts, and habits can play an influence as well.

Q: How can I find out if I have a combination body type?

• Answer: Leave the discovery work to the experts! - Stay tuned for booking services on my website!