Body Types & Weight Loss

The body type that you have will determine your propensity to burn or store fat and should be considered when planning any weight loss program. The human body is predisposed to storing fat, especially in the midsection, as a way to cope with times of famine and also as an energy store for pregnancy. This is an action that has developed over millions of years as humans have evolved.

The Facts

There are three distinctive body types; they are mesomorph, endomorph and ectomorph. All people can be categorized as one of these types, but can be also be between two different types. Depending on the body type you have will determine your propensity for fat storage as well as your ability to lose excess fat. The most effective way to lose weight is to manipulate your metabolism through diet and exercise.

Body Types

A mesomorph typically has a well defined muscle structure. They tend to respond well to weight training and have the ability to gain muscle mass quickly. Mesomorphs have to constantly watch their caloric intake to prevent storage of excess fat.

An endomorph typically is shorter in stature and has larger limbs. They tend to gain weight easily; unfortunately this weight gain tends to be fat instead of muscle. Endomorphs tend to be strong, especially in the legs. Endomorphs typically have a slow metabolism, resulting in excess weight gain.

An ectomorph is defined as very skinny with very little body fat. They tend to have a very difficult time gaining any weight, either fat or muscle. Ectomorphs have a very fast metabolism resulting in the rapid burning of nearly all consumed calories.

Exercises

When starting any diet and fitness program, consideration should be given to your body type. If you are a mesomorph, you will benefit the most from a concentration on weightlifting with some, but a minimum amount of cardio. If you are an endomorph, you will benefit the most from a concentration of cardio and some light weight training. Aerobics are a great source to get both of these in one workout. Ectomorphs tend to be excellent long-distance runners and bike riders, but because fast metabolism they have a very difficult time building large muscles.

Aerobics, walking, swimming and biking are all very effective cardio exercises. There are distinct advantages and disadvantages to each one. Aerobics are the most effective form of cardio exercise because it focuses on each part of the body and includes light weight training as well. Walking and biking are also are great ways to get your cardio, but only focus on developing the lower body. If you choose to do these types of exercises, then consider adding some weight training that develops all parts of the body. sit-ups, crunches and other abdominal exercises must be included in any workout. They will not target belly fat, but will develop the underlying muscle.

Nutrition

Nutrition is a key component of an overall fitness program. Your body type will have a direct impact on your nutritional needs. Nutrition and exercise have the highest impact on your metabolism and over time, your metabolism can be manipulated to increase the loss of fat and building of lean muscle. Consult with a certified nutritionist for an overall assessment of your nutritional needs

Warnings

Always consult with a physician before starting any fitness program. Have your doctor check your body mass index. Body mass index tells you whether you are overweight when your weight is compared to your height. Body fat calibration is used to measure specific parts of the body for fat content. Body mass index readings are very generic and do not give a total picture of true body fat content. Body fat calibration is far more accurate because it uses measurements taken at specific points of the body to give an overall picture.