A Guide For Your Body Type

Did you know there's a specific way to lose weight depending on your body type?

Research suggests that each body type has certain characteristics in terms of weight, fat, and muscle — and there’s data to support optimal ways to lose weight solely based on your body type.

In this article, we'll show you step by step how you should approach losing weight according to your body type.

How To Lose Weight - By Body Type

Back in 1940s, Dr. W.H. Sheldon discovered people have 3 generalized body composition types. These body types are endomorph, mesomorph, and ectomorph.

It was originally believed that a person’s body type was unchangeable and that certain physiological traits were determined by whichever one a person aligns to.

According to Sheldon, endomorphs have bodies that are usually soft and rounded, mesomorphs are square-shaped and muscular, and ectomorphs are often thin and fine-boned.

He theorized that these body types directly influenced a person’s personality, and the names were chosen because he believed the predominate traits of each somatotype were set in stone, derived from pre-birth preferential development of either the endodermal, mesodermal, or ectodermal embryonic layers.

Here are 3 steps to lose weight specific to your body type... 

Step 1: Determine Your Body Type

If you want to lose weight, the first step is to figure out your body type.

There are three main body types: ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph. Ectomorphs are thin and have a hard time gaining weight.

They often have a fast metabolism and can eat a lot without gaining weight.

If you’re an ectomorph and want to gain weight, you need to eat more calories than you burn.

Mesomorphs are of average build and can gain or lose weight easily.

If you’re a mesomorph, you just need to find the right balance of calories in and calories out. Eat too many calories and you’ll gain weight, eat too few and you’ll lose weight.

Endomorphs tend to be larger boned and have a harder time losing weight.

They often have a slower metabolism and can’t eat as much without gaining weight.

If you’re an endomorph trying to lose weight, you need to create a calorie deficit by eating fewer calories than you burn.

Step 2: Know What To Eat/Avoid

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what you should eat and drink to lose weight.

The best approach is to tailor your diet to your specific body type.

If you have an ectomorphic body type, you may find it difficult to put on weight.

In this case, you should focus on eating foods that are high in calories and nutrients, such as nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil, and full-fat dairy.

You should also make sure to eat plenty of protein-rich foods, such as meat, fish, eggs, and legumes.

If you have a mesomorphic body type, you may find it easy to put on muscle but also easy to store fat.

In this case, you should focus on eating lean proteins and healthy fats while avoiding processed carbs and sugary foods.

You should also make sure to get plenty of exercise so that you can maintain a healthy weight.

If you have an endomorphic body type, you may find it easy to gain weight.

In this case, you should focus on eating mostly whole foods that are low in calories and sugar.

You should also avoid processed carbs and eat more protein and fiber-rich foods.

Step 3: How To Exercise And Stay Motivated

You may have to trial a few different approaches before you find the one that works best for you.

However, there are some general principles that apply to everyone.

Here are some tips on how to exercise and stay motivated:

Find an activity that you enjoy and can stick with.

It doesn't have to be intense exercise; even moderate activity can help you lose weight if you're consistent with it.

Set realistic goals for yourself.

If you set your sights too high, you'll likely get discouraged and give up.

Breaking your goals down into smaller, achievable pieces will help you stay on track.

Create a support system of friends or family who will encourage you in your weight loss journey.

Having people to cheer you on will help keep you motivated.

Find a workout buddy who shares your fitness goals.

Having someone to exercise with makes working out more fun and can help keep you accountable.

Conclusion

Losing weight can be a challenge, but it can be especially difficult if you don't know what type of diet and exercise plan will work best for your body type.

We hope this guide has helped you understand a little bit more about how to lose weight based on your body type.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all solution — so be patient, do your research, and find the plan that works best for you.

Good luck!