Human body shape can be categorized into several different body shape types. So you're probably wondering what your body type is. We're going to explain what the different body shape types are so you can figure out what your body shape is. It's important to note that these categories are general and many people don't fit neatly into one type, but may have characteristics from several different types.
The 3 Body Types by William Herbert Sheldon.
The terms "ectomorph", "mesomorph" and "endomorph" are used in the classification of human body types, also known as body typology. These terms were introduced by American psychologist William Herbert Sheldon in the 1940s. Each body type is associated with certain physical characteristics and has implications for diet and exercise.
- Ectomorph:
- Characteristics: An ectomorphic person usually has a slim physique, with narrow shoulders, narrow hips, and a fast metabolism. They tend to have long limbs and a low amount of body fat.
- Implications for weight gain and loss: An ectomorph may have a hard time gaining weight and building muscle mass. They have a fast metabolism, which means they burn calories quickly. To gain weight healthily, they should eat a balanced diet rich in protein, fiber, carbohydrates, and fats and include strength training exercises in their routine to build muscle mass.
- Mesomorph:
- Characteristics: A mesomorphic person often has a muscular physique, with a broad upper body and shoulders, a narrow waist, and proportionate hips. They naturally have a good amount of muscle mass and an efficient metabolism.
- Implications for weight gain and loss: Mesomorphs generally have less difficulty in building muscle than other body types. They can maintain a healthy weight relatively easily by combining a balanced diet with regular exercise.
- Endomorph:
- Characteristics: An endomorph tends to have a fuller build, with broad shoulders and hips, as well as a relatively high amount of body fat. They generally have a slower metabolism.
- Implications for weight gain and loss: An endomorph often has an easier time gaining weight and may have a harder time losing it. They have a slower metabolism and tend to store more fat. To lose weight, they should eat a balanced diet and incorporate cardiovascular exercise like running and strength training into their routine.
Other types of morphology and their characteristics.
A-shaped (or hourglass) morphology
This body type is characterized by shoulders and hips of similar width, with a narrower waist in the middle. People with this body type have a balanced silhouette.
People with this body shape typically have a balanced distribution of fat across their body. Weight and muscle gain can occur relatively evenly across the body. Weight loss can occur evenly across the body, but certain areas such as the waist and hips may respond more quickly to targeted exercise and a balanced diet.
V-shaped morphology (or inverted triangle)
People with this body shape have broad shoulders and a narrow waist, but narrower hips.
People with a V-shaped body shape often tend to gain weight around the shoulders and upper back.
Weight loss may be more noticeable in the shoulders and upper back. Emphasis may be placed on muscle strengthening to balance the figure.
H-shaped (or rectangular) morphology
This body type is characterized by shoulders, waist and hips of similar width. People with this body type have a straighter silhouette and a less defined waist.
People with this body shape often have even weight gain across their entire body.
Weight loss can occur relatively evenly. The emphasis can be on toning to create more pronounced curves.
O (or apple) morphology
People with this body shape tend to carry weight around the abdominal area. The shoulders may be narrower than the hips, but the waist is less defined.
People with an O body shape tend to gain weight around the abdominal area.
Weight loss may be more noticeable in the abdominal area. It is important to focus on a healthy diet and cardiovascular exercise to reduce abdominal fat.
Morphology in Eight (or cello)
This body type is characterized by shoulders and hips of similar width, with a very narrow waist in the middle. People with this body type have a very curvy silhouette.
Weight gain may be balanced across the entire body, but waist curves may become more pronounced.
Weight loss can occur harmoniously throughout the body, but it can be beneficial to do exercises to strengthen and tone the waistline.
X-shaped morphology
It is a more extreme version of the figure 8, with wider shoulders and hips and a very narrow waist, creating a very pronounced X-shaped silhouette.
Weight gain may be balanced across the entire body, but waist curves may become more pronounced.
Weight loss can occur harmoniously throughout the body. Toning exercises can help maintain the balance of curves.
Oval Morphology
People with this body shape tend to carry weight around the abdominal area without a very defined waistline.
People with an oval body shape tend to gain weight around the abdominal area.
Weight loss may be more noticeable in the abdominal area. Emphasis may be placed on a healthy diet and cardiovascular exercise.
In summary.
It is important to note that most people do not strictly fit into one body type. Most individuals have a mix of characteristics from these different types. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional or personal trainer for personalized nutrition and exercise advice based on your specific body type.
