Did you know that efficient and effective exercises is based on how your body is formed? People with larger hips or broad shoulders lose weight at different paces, so perhaps doing the same work-out as your pear-shaped friend may not be as useful to you.
There are three forms of body types – ectomorphs, mesomorphs and endomorphs. Sounds absolutely scientific, but it’s not that complicated, really! Each of these body types were specially designed with their own strengths and weaknesses, so simply figure out which fits your description and work-out according to your body type!
Ectomorphs
Ectomorphs generally have tall and slender figures and very little excess fat. They have modest bust-lines and generally have trouble gaining weight. Popular ectomorphs for example are Kate Moss, Audrey Hepburn and Gisele Bundchen.
Ectomorphs can generally eat anything they want without seeing any extra sign of weight-gain, which can in fact be an advantage, however as not all good things last, fat may end up taking up most of their body mass!
But is it necessary for Ectomorphs to lose weight when they’re already slender? Working out should just be an issue about weight-loss, but a matter of fitness to keep your body in-shape and slim. So, instead of going for high-intensity cardio workout which can leave you too skinny, opt for strength-training classes that help you tone your body and build muscle. Ectomorphs should also work on eating a balanced diet and incorporate more nutritional foods, too!
Mesomorphs are the buff broads of the lot! They come in medium frames but muscular and their figures seem almost athletic – solid torso and shoulders, and a narrow waist. Mesomorphs are pretty lucky as they can bulk up on both fat and muscle, but easily burns the fat off with a good workout.
Regular cardio and weight-training can mesomorphs maintain their fit and toned bodies, even as they age. Madonna is the ideal example of a mesomorph – at 54, she’s as fit as a beast!
Endomorphs
Majority of women are endomorphs – their figures are feminine, soft and they generally come with a bunch of curves. But it’s no surprise that with soft curves, endomorphs can gain fat and will find it hard to build muscle. However, endomorphs are in fact built with a strong set of legs, which will become our fat-burning machine!
As endomorphs have a harder time trying to burn fat, it is recommended that endos take on fat-blasting cardio exercises like running, spinning, biking at least 30-40 minutes, several days a week. And when it comes to building muscle, you can never deny Yoga and Pilates when it comes to the ability to help strengthen and stretch your body!
Famous endomorphs include the legendary Marilyn Monroe, Jennifer Hudson (whose sporting a curvy and fit physique), and the voluptuous Christina Hendricks.
So, which of these somatotypes are you? Share with us on our Forum.