Know Your Somatotype

Somatotype; It is theorized that people are born with an inherited body type based on skeletal frame and body composition. Most people are unique combinations of the three body types: ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph.

IN Review;

Body type, or somatotype, refers to the idea that there are three generalized body compositions that people are predetermined to have. The concept was theorized by Dr. W.H. Sheldon back in the early 1940s, naming the three somatotypes endomorph, mesomorph, and ectomorph.

It was originally believed that a person’s somatotype was unchangeable, and that certain physiological and psychological characteristics were even determined by whichever one a person aligns to.

According to Sheldon, endomorphs have bodies that are always rounded and soft, mesomorphs are always square and muscular, and ectomorphs are always thin and fine-boned.

He theorized that these body types directly influenced a person’s personality, and the names were chosen because he believed the predominate traits of each somatotype were set in stone, derived from pre-birth preferential development of either the endodermal, mesodermal, or ectodermal embryonic layers. Although Sheldon’s theory’s of body types relating to personality traits were debunked, based on lack of scientific evidence, the basic theory of the three body compositions and blending of more than one body type remains as a recognized categorization.

So what does that Mean to YOU?

Once you have determined more or less which category your feel that your body type fits into, adjusting diet and exercise to fit and suit YOU can help in the shaping or your own physique. Genetics can prevent you from changing your body structure, but your shape doesn’t tell you what body composition you have to have. Knowing your somatotype can allow you to work with your body to make adjustments to factors you can control, rather than working against it and being constantly frustrated by your lack of success.

So, having a general idea of your somatotype and understanding your body structure can help you make the changes required to alter your body composition, However, the most effective way to achieve your body composition goals is still testing your body composition and tracking your changes.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to body composition. We come in all shapes and sizes, and discovering what works best with your somatotype will help you take the necessary steps to achieve your body composition goals.

Remember, your somatotype "is a combination of your musculature, and your bone structure, and density." These characteristics are genetically determined and unchangeable. The width of your hips or shoulders, for example, you can't change them with exercise. No amount of exercise can transform a short-limbed woman into a lithe supermodel, or a diminutive jockey into a muscle-bound linebacker.

The next blog will review the questions that you must have now…. How to Eat and Exercise Right for MY Body Type