Information On Mesomorph, Ectomorph And Endomorph

A North American psychologist and physician named William Sheldon suggested in the early 1940s that certain personality types were associated with particular body types or somatotypes. He is credited with introducing the concept of endomorphy, mesomorphy, and ectomorphy, but he never succeeded in proving that the body types he described are linked to specific psychological traits.

Body Types

While Sheldon described three distinct types of human physiques, it is generally acknowledged that nearly all humans have combinations of the three. If, however, a person's physique shows traits predominately associated with one somatotype, that person may be classified as an ectomorph, an endomorph or a mesomorph. A more accurate description is supplied by assigning a three digit somatotype number. The first digit describes the degree of endomorphy, while the second and third digits respectively describe the degree of mesomorphy and ectomorphy. The digits, which range from 1 to 7, reflect the degree of somatotype traits. A somatotype number of 444, for example, would describe someone whose physique balances out the extremes of the three body types.

Ectomorph

An ectomorph body type is characterized by thinness or linearity. Extreme ectomorphs tend to be tall and lightly muscled and have flat chests and delicate builds. Long, thin limbs, a thin face and a narrow trunk are other features associated with this type. It is often a challenge for someone with this body type to add muscle, although it is possible. The somatotype number of an extreme ectomorph would be 117.

Endomorph

An endomorph body type is characterized by roundness; extreme mesomorphs tend to be globular in their general appearance. This trait is apparent both in the shape of both their heads and abdomens. Bodies tend to be soft and muscles are not well developed. Limbs are short with upper halves being larger than lower halves. It is not unusual for someone with strong endomorphic features to have significantly more body fat than people with ectomorphic or mesomorphic features. The somatotype number of an extreme endomorph would be 711.

Mesomorph

A mesomorph body type is characterized by an above average degree of muscularity. Extreme mesomorphs tend have large, square-shaped heads, and large muscular shoulders, chests, arms, and legs. Body fat is below average. It is comparatively easy for someone with this body type to add muscle. The somatotype number of an extreme ectomorph would be 171.