What's All the Hype About Body Type?

In the last twenty years there has been a lot of talk about how body type affects overall fitness and the ability to lose (or gain) weight. There are various classifications and body shapes that have been identified, as well as different approaches to losing weight for each type. Your overall body shape and type is determined by your genetic makeup. Body typing can explain why some people seem to be able to eat whatever they want without gaining a pound, while others have to watch every bite carefully. The bad news is that you're stuck with the body you're born with, the good news is that knowing your type is the first step to learning how to work with it.

General Classifications

Nutritionists and other scientists have come up with three basic body types: the ecotomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph. Each variation reacts to weight gain and loss in a different way. Knowing which type of body you have makes it easier to plan a fitness routine and diet that will provide the best results.

Ectomorph: This body type is generally thin, with a small frame, long limbs and a straight up and down shape. Ectomorphs have difficulty gaining both weight and muscle. Weight training-especially of the upper body-can assist in adding muscle to the ectomorphic frame. This body shape is sometimes referred to as the "Ruler" type.

Mesomorph: The Mesomorph frame is typically large boned and muscular. Mesomorphs find it easy to build muscle and lose weight, although they have a difficult time if their goal is to be "skinny". Healthy mesopmorphs will have a solid, hourglass figure, which is why this body shape is also called the "Hourglass" type. Mesomorphs should concentrate on a strong cardio workout and limit weight training unless the goal is to pack on muscle.

Endomorph: Endomorphs are sometimes referred to as having pear-shaped bodies as they tend to gain weight on the bottom half of their body. Some people classify this body shape as the "Cone." Many endomorphs find it difficult to lose weight, particularly in the thighs and abdomen. Along with carefully monitoring their fat intake, endomorphs should combine an intense cardio regime along with a moderate weight training program to see the most results for their efforts.