You probably have felt at one point or another like you were spinning your wheels in your fight to lose weight or simply to become more fit. In many cases, understanding your body type -- what makes it unique, how it will respond to diet and exercise, and how it will not respond -- can make your weight loss efforts far more efficient.
Body Types
The modern theory of the three basic categories of body types was originally developed in the 1940s by Dr. William H. Sheldon. These three human body types are the ectomorph, the mesomorph and the endomorph. Of course, not everyone will be exactly correspondent to one of these body types, but most people will tend primarily towards one type, perhaps with elements of the others as well.
Ectomorph
People with ectomorphic body types tend to lose weight too easily. They have difficulty building or retaining muscle, particularly in the case of male ectomorphs; and curves, particularly in the case of female ectomorphs. Individuals who tend to have these issues will want to increase their intake of calories, particularly if they are already active. However, they should still be cautious to primarily eat foods high in nutrients, rather than simply high-calorie junk foods.
Mesomorph
People with mesomorphic body types are generally considered to have the ideal body type for good health, when properly maintained. They are generally able to manage their weight fairly easily, as long as they incorporate good habits in regards to diet and exercise. Even mesomorphic individuals, however, can find themselves struggling with obesity if they are careless about maintaining healthy habits.
Endomorph
People with endomorphic body types, unfortunately, have the most difficult time with fat loss, since their bodies store fat very easily and tend to be reluctant to burn it. Endomorphic individuals will want to be particularly cautious about eating high-calorie meals and snacks and particularly disciplined about maintaining a high level of physical activity. But, possessing an endomorphic body type certainly does not mean that obesity is inevitable; it simply means that avoiding obesity will likely require extra work and discipline.
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