Physically speaking, not all of us are created equal. We are all different, we don’t all have the same body types, fitness needs, and paths to success. We can, however, divide bodies into three basic categories to get a better idea of how they work so you can unlock your full potential or use the knowledge to help others unlock theirs. Check out the three main body types below, find which one sounds like you and learn the best ways to get results at the gym.

Ectomorph

The characteristics of an ectomorph are:

  • Lean and Long: Your limbs are longer than average and are skinny with less than average muscle mass.
  • High Metabolism: You burn calories quick which is great for losing weight but not so much for putting on muscle mass.
  • Smaller Frame: Despite longer limbs, your shoulders, chest and torso are smaller and thinner.

Training tips for ectomorphs: Your workouts should be high intensity, with a focus on weight training large muscle groups by doing exercises like squats and pull-ups. You’re probably already great at long, low-intensity cardio workouts like running so avoid that or you’ll burn off all of your gains.

Mesomorph

The characteristics of a mesomorph are:

  • Just Right: You lucked out and hit the “Goldilocks zone,” with a rectangular and athletic body. Your limbs aren’t as lanky, and they hold a good deal of muscle.
  • Faster Gains: You put on muscle quickly, which was great until you found out that you put on fat just as easily.

Training tips for mesomorphs: Luckily your body is well rounded with lean muscle so your training regimen should reflect that. If you have a mesomorph body type, then your weight training should be balanced with intense cardio. You can hit two birds with one stone and do plyometrics like box jumps.

Endomorph

The characteristics of an endomorph are:

  • Compact Build: You’re shorter than average, with a stocky build that’s round.
  • Gains Upon Gains: You build fat and muscle at rapid rates.
  • Low Metabolism: You burn fat slower than others, but on the plus side your muscles stick around longer, too.

Training tips for endomorphs: Cardio is essential for you. Interval training is best, so you can ditch the treadmill. High weight and low rep weight training will help you fuel your muscles while burning calories.

Things to Keep in Mind

These body types aren’t set in stone. Many people are a mix of two different body types and as such require a combination of needs. Remember, just because you happen to be a particular body type doesn’t mean that you can’t have the body you want. All it takes is the proper knowledge, tools and determination. You can gain that proper knowledge by getting started on one of our personal training courses!

 

Contribution by Jane Townsend, Freelance Writer.