If we start playing a game without understanding it’s basics, results would be less than desirable. Muscle building is no different. If we understand why a particular thing needs to be done, then what is to be done becomes easy to identify and chances of winning are higher.

We are overloaded with tons of information on training programs and diet plans. Most of us make the mistake of choosing one randomly, without understanding whether that particular program is suitable for us or not. It is important to understand that not everyone has the  same body type, and different body types respond differently to training programs and diet plans. What works for one may not necessarily work for the other.

Once we recognize our body type, it becomes easier to choose a customized workout and diet plan. Results will be phenomenal.So let’s dive deep, and understand what are the different body- types .

The 3 Body types:

 

Somatotype is a classification of developed by US psychologist W.H. Sheldon that categorizes human bodies in terms of 3 extreme types:

 

Ectomorph – Slim, linear type

  • Narrow hips

  • Narrow chest

  • Small Joints

  • Long limbs

  • Thin built

  • Very little fat storage

 

Mesomorph – Muscular type

  • Large chest

  • Narrow waist

  • Thinner joints

  • Solid muscle structure

  • Great strength

 

Endomorph -Round, fat type

  • Round face

  • Short limbs

  • Thick joints

  • Soft musculature

  • Wide hips

  • Heavy fat storage

It is important to remember that no one is entirely one type of category but a combination of all three. A three-digit number represents a Somatotype, where first digit refers to endomorphy, second to mesomorphy and the third digit refers to ectomorphy. Each digit is on a scale of 1 to 7 (7 being the highest). So 711,171 and 117 represents extreme endomorph, mesomorph and ectomorph respectively, which are rare or non-existent. A person of normal built has a Somatotype approaching 444.

A 562 for example, will be an endo-mesomorph, well muscled but inclined to carry a lot of fat.

Following are the examples of body types of some famous body builders.

 

Each body type needs different approach to achieve best results. We discuss that in  Customized plan for each body type