Work with...not against your somatotype!

Dr. William H. Sheldon a Harvard professor in the 1930-40's studied body types from a psychologists point of view. His study initially was to research how our bodies were related to temperements like introverts vs extroverts. As a part of his research he developed a three part classification system for our internal and external  body type characteristics called somatotyping. There are three different somatotypes (body types) the Mesomorph, Endomorph and Ectomorph. Sometimes people can have a combination of at least two of them.

Ectomorph Characteristics

• Lean usually naturally petite and slender.
• Fast Metabolism.
• Very low body fat percentage.
• Gains Muscle easily.
• Difficult to gain weight.

Ever see those petite people who eat all that they want and not gain a pound? Those lucky son of a guns! By the way, just because someone is skinny, doesn't mean they are healthy. Ectomorphs can pretty much eat what they want within moderation. They sometimes run the risk of malnutrition. Of course choosing the healthier options to keep the heart healthy would be wise. In general everyone should exercise, but this body type could get away without intense physical exercise.

Mesomorph Characteristics

• Lean.
• Muscular.
• Naturally athletic.
• Gain both muscle and fat easily.

Mesomorphs generally known as the "genetically favored" body type should keep a healthy lifestyle by eating healthy. Just because this body type is athletic, doesn't mean that fitness should be neglected. Fat attaches to anything it can internally including our organs. It's important to generally eat healthy and maybe cheat now and then to kill those cravings. Don't think your scot-free with this body type. As a general rule exercise and try to eat healthy! For an even more muscluar look lift heavier weights. Proteins and carbs should be highly consumed. If you slip up and eat too much simple carbs with no exercise that "perfect body" will change right before your eyes.

Endomorph Characteristics

• Genetically stores fat easily due to a slow metabolism.
• Usually but not always medium - large framed "big boned".
• Medium to large joints.
• Round physique.
• Weight loss is difficult.
• Gains muscle easily like the mesomorph.
• Difficult to lose fat.

White pasta and breads are your enemies. Remove processed and refined carbohydrates from the endomorphs diet, particularly white sugar and white flour products. Carbs in this body type will transition to fat much faster than the other two somatotypes. Eat high protein foods with complex carbs 5 - 6 times daily to speed up the metabolism. Combine strength and cardiovascular training to optimize muscle gain and fat loss.  Complete cardio 5 -6 days a week and strength train a minimum of 3 days a week. For a leaner and toner look do higher reps per set. Confuse your muscles by doing high intense workouts and then transition to the moderate to light workouts.

My somatotype is a combination of an Endomorph and Mesomorph. My metabolism is slow. I gain weight very easily, but when I consistently workout and eat right I look like a bodybuilder without trying too hard.  What is your somatotype?

There is no "perfect body type" it's a matter of knowing how to exercise and what to eat according to your somatotype. Learn to work around genetics and you will obtain and maintain a healthy weight. Live a glorious lifestyle, feel better both mentally and physically by following these tips!! Remember..you only live once!!!