Step 2: Know Your Body type

DO YOU KNOW YOUR BODY TYPE?

For most people, one of the first steps towards fashioning a fitness program is to understand the concept of body types, and identifying their body type. In this article I will explain the concept of body types.

There are three basic types: ectomorph, mesomorph and endomorph.

Characterized by long and thin muscles/limbs and low fat storage; usually referred to as slim, the ectomorphs are typically the "hard-gainers", those who most likely have been slim all their lives and have small frames, little fat and long, lean muscles. Picture those Ethiopian runners competing in track and field events. They epitomize ectomorphs. 

An Ectomorph

A mesomorph is a body that is in most ways "average," not overly large and muscular and not round and fat. The real difference between an ectomorph and a mesomorph is the ability to gain both fat and muscle.

Mesomorph

Ectomorphs have difficulty gaining either fat or muscle; while mesomorphs can grow fat if they are inactive and overeat and likewise can transform into hard bodies with a modicum of effort. Many NFL Quarterbacks are good examples of Mesomorphs.

Lastly is the endomorph. These body types are typically rounded with belly fat, hips (for women) and double chins. They can, however, add muscle fairly easily when it is approached correctly and combined with clean eating and the addition of cardio. 

Sumo Wrestlers... Classic Endomorphs

While there are a few people who are truly one body type or another, most of us are a combination of two, with one type being more dominant than the other.

Knowing your own body type will help you understand both your nutritional and exercise needs for losing fat and gaining muscle, and will also help you to plan a long-term strategy that is reasonable and does not set you up for disappointment.

In other words, if you are an ectomorph, don't expect to have bulging biceps overnight. It is going to take time for you to add that extra lean mass. 

In subsequent articles I will describe sample workouts for the various body parts.