BODY

HEALTH: KNOW YOUR BODY TYPE

Not every body's created equal. Before you start your training and nutrition regimen, it's a good idea to figure out your body type. Knowing which of the three basic body types you're closest to will help you better tailor your diet and exercise plan and set realistic, attainable goals that pave the way to your success.

THREE BASIC HUMAN BODY TYPES:

THE ENDOMORPH
Characterized by a preponderance of body fat

  • Blocky
  • Thick rib cage
  • Wide/thicker joints
  • Hips as wide (or wider) than clavicles
  • Shorter limbs

    An endomorph will look heavier even when ripped.

THE MESOMORPH
Marked by a well-developed musculature

  • Wide clavicles
  • Narrow waist
  • Thinner joints
  • Long and round muscle bellies

    A mesomorph will look well proportioned even with a little added weight.

THE ECTOMORPH
Distinguished by a lack of much fat or muscle tissue.

  • Narrow hips and clavicles
  • Small joints (wrist/ankles)
  • Thin build
  • Stringy muscle bellies
  • Long limbs

An ectomorph will naturally look skinner than he or she is. 

How can you tell what your body type is? Take this simple test here at bodybuilding.com

Learn how to train and eat for your specific body type. Don't waste your time with cookie cutter plans that don't take your unique qualities into consideration.