BODY SPECIFIC: WHAT'S YOUR BODY TYPE

BODY SPECIFIC: WHAT'S YOUR BODY TYPE

Endomorph	Ectomorph	Mesomorph

Every one of us was given a genetic blueprint when we were born. That blue print was pre-determined by the physical and biological makeup of our parents. If Mom and Dad looked like Tarzan and Jane - great! On the other hand, if they were a little on the heavy side, oh well.

However, thanks to the science of nutrition and weight training exercises, we can alter our physical appearance. The key to doing this is knowing your body type and how it responds to nutrition and weight training.

There are three basic body types - Mesomorph, Endomorph, and Ectomorph. The characteristics of each one vary. Their physical features and the way they assimilate food determines which body type it is.

Mesomorph
The mesomorph has a natural muscular or toned build (male or female). Their body fat percentages are relatively low. Being that they are naturally muscular with a good metabolism, it's not as hard to put on extra muscle. However, the right type of calories and training must be there. The mesomorph must also include extra calories based on his or her activity level, if the goal is to put on more muscle size.

Ectomorph

This body type has a lean thin build and problems keeping weight on. The metabolism burns calories at a rapid rate. The Ectomorph can eat nearly anythingand get away with it. Most people wish they had this problem. In order for the ectomorph to gain weight, the muscles cells must be stimulated through weight-training. There must also be additional calories added to ensure maximum growth. 250 to 500 calories more per day is a good place to start. Check on the weight scale and measuring tape for reference. Also be sure to increase caloric intake to accommodate activity level.

Endomorph

The physical feature of the endomorph is natural body bulk. The body metabolizes calories at a slow rate. For this reason the endomorph must maintain a diet low in fat with a medium to low carbohydrate intake (not dropping below 100 grams of carbs a day). Aerobic work along with a structural weight-training program is a must in lowering body fat. There are also nutritional supplements that may enhance the metabolism.