Do you know what body type you have ? Did you know that your body type can help you determine what types of workouts and how to eat to improve your physical performance? It’s true that when you think of body type you can start to think of the different categories that people fall into. Being able to identify what type of category you fall under, you can then start to develop a plan to exercise and eat for that performance to enhance your personal physique !
Physique characteristics can thus be linked to metabolic differences between individuals. Once someone establishes their body type, they can then adjust nutrient intake to maximize body composition and health related goals.There are three general categories of body types (somatotypes): ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph. It is very rare that you will fit perfectly into just one category as you will have characteristics from each but you can mainly identify yourself into one.
Ectomorph:
Naturally thin, smaller bone structure and faster metabolism. Think of a typical endurance athlete. This body type is linked to a fast metabolic rate and a high carbohydrate tolerance. This group generally does best with more carbohydrates in the diet, along with a moderate protein and lower fat intake. A nutrient distribution for this body type might be around 55% carbs, 25% protein, and 20% fat.
Mesomorph
More of an athletic body and have a considerable amount of lean mass. Many explosive athletes like wrestlers and gymnasts fit this body type. Mesomorphs tend to be testosterone and growth hormone dominant. This profile leads to a predisposition for muscle gain and the maintenance of a lower body fat. It is easy to build muscle and lose fat if needed but it also works in the opposite and you can gain weight quickly as well. Maintaining a consistent workout plan and eating pattern is the best to maintain your results. Mesomorphs typically do best on a mixed diet, consisting of balanced carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. A macronutrient split of 40% carbohydrate, 30% protein, and 30% fat can work well.
Endomorph
This body type has the best of both world, a combination of muscle and fat. Understanding that this body type is strong but holds a little extra fat is important when fitting in food combinations. Endomorphs typically do best on a higher fat and protein intake with carbohydrate intake being controlled and properly timed such as after exercise. A nutrient distribution for this body type might be around 25% carbs, 35% protein, and 40% fat. Just think higher fats and protein, lower carbs.
If you can identify with one of these categories you can then start to detail your meals, workouts, and lifestyle around these recommendations. Your body is like a science project that you need to keep changing and adapting to make it more efficient and work at an optimal performance. But if you look at the big picture for all “body types,” you’ll find that mixing it up in the gym benefits all physiques. These are just a few tips that can really work for your body type but don’t forget that everyone can benefit from lifting with intensity, fueling your body and mixing it up during your workouts.