Learn

Did you know that our body type is determined by the genes passed onto us by our parents? These genes determine our physical traits – how we look and lots of other stuff about us. Usually your body will look like one or both of your parent’s bodies because you inherited a certain body type.

In the 1930’s, a doctor named William H. Sheldon, MD., developed the concept of somatotypes, or body types to help us better understand our bodies. There are three different body types: Ectomorph, Endomorph and Mesomorph.

• Ectomorphs have a small frame with long lean muscles. Because of their fast metabolism, they can be a bit more relaxed about their diet. (famous ectomorphs - Kate Moss, Brad Pitt, Paris Hilton)
• Mesomorphs are more muscular and athletic with a medium sized frame and wider shoulders. This body type can consume a reasonable amount of calories since they tend to gain muscle more easily. (famous mesomorphs - Madonna, Bruce Willis, Leila Ali)
• Endomorphs have a medium to large frame with a rounder figure. Since weight loss is more difficult for Endomorphs, they need to watch their diet and get plenty of cardio exercise. (famous endomorphs - Jennifer Lopez, Oprah Winfrey, Jack Black>)

Most people are usually unique combinations of the three different body types, but there are some people whose somatotype is solely the Ectomorph, Endomorph or Mesomorph.

Doctors, physical trainers and nutritionists have been using this system to prescribe effective, individualized diet and exercise plans for years. By recognizing your body type, they can recommend a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise routine to maintain a healthy body weight.

Eating well is very important in keeping your body working at its best. According to the food pyramid, a balanced diet consists of a mixture of fruits, vegetables, grains, meats, fish and dairy. A food pyramid, is a chart that includes the different foods from all five groups and how much of each type of food you should eat. Learn more about the Food Guide Pyramid.

Regular exercise is also essential for maintaining a healthy body weight. Exercise not only builds muscle to help us become stronger but it also helps to reduce stress and increases fitness of the heart and the respiratory system. The endorphin rush we get while exercising not only makes us feel better, but can improve our mood.

Are you an Ectomorph, the Mesomorph, the Endomorph, or a combination? Knowing your body type can surely help you do the exercises that are best for you. Start by loving your body and making conscious choices that keep it healthy. You will be on your way to developing good eating habits and prevent future problems such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure later in life.