Since our earlier post ‘What IS my body type?’ was so
popular, we have decided to do some follow up posts on the topic to help our
readers be even more informed and reach their health and fitness goals
in a safe, effective manner.
This post will focus on fitness and we're working on a follow-up post which will discuss proper nutrition for each body type.
We got a great question this week from a ‘Fit Fan’. She
asked, “Can you be a blend of two body types?” ABSOLUTELY! Regardless of your
body type or which combination you may be, the key is understanding the most effectively diet and exercise routine that suits your body's natural tendencies.
Exercise is important for many reasons, but nothing is
more frustrating than spending hours in the gym and not seeing the results you
want in the time you expect. This is one of the main reasons people give up on
their fitness goals. After today you will have a better
idea of how to best train for your body’s needs.
An important point to keep in mind is, “what are my goals?”
Different goals require different diet and exercise. An endomorph looking to
lose fat would not be successful following a plan designed for an ectomorph who
wants to add size and muscle. Different goals require different nutrition and
training.
According to Bodybuilding.com:
Endomorph
“An Endomorph's biggest concern should be the losing of fat
and adopting a lifestyle that keeps it off. Strength training should be done to
get a better muscle to fat ratio and therefore improve metabolism. Use moderate
weights at a fast training pace (very little rest between sets and exercises).
Engage daily in some activity like brisk walking, biking, etc., and try to
increase the amount of time you spend each week.”
“A Mesomorph has a naturally fit body but to maintain it or
improve it they should exercise and diet correctly for their type. You should
train with moderate to heavy weighs and at a moderate pace, not resting too
long between sets. Engage in and enjoy aerobic activities, sports, etc. but do
not overdo it.”
Ectomorph
"Ectomorphs should concentrate on gaining weight in the form
of good lean muscle tissue.Weight training should be done but not too often or
for too long each session. Weight should be fairly heavy and workout pace
slower (longer rest periods between sets). Aerobic and other activities
(sports, dancing, etc.) should be kept to a minimum, at least until you are
happy with your weight and looks."
Body type training advice for women
Body type training advice for men
To determine your body type, read our previous blog:
'What IS my body type?'
'What IS my body type?'