How to Train for Your Body Type
If you want to see real results from your training plan in real time, one of the first things you need is a plan.
Designing a solid workout plan depends on a number of factors. Today, we’re going to take a look at how to design your workout program based on your body type.
The truth is, most workouts can work for most people, but thinking about your body type can help you optimize your workouts to maximize results in the best way possible. Every body is different, but we can generally think about three primary body types. You’ve probably heard of them before:
1. Ectomorph – These individuals have a very small frame and a very high metabolism. This combination results in a pretty thin body type, which is good when it comes to weight gain (or lack thereof). The problem often faced by this body type, however, is in building muscle.
2. Mesomorph – A mesomorph body type is a medium to large frame, but generally more toned and defined, with more muscle and less fat. Many individuals, both men and women, often see this body type as their goal.
3. Endomorph – This last body type probably poses the greatest challenge to those trying to get in shape and lose weight. Endomorphs have a naturally medium to large frame and generally a low metabolism. These individuals often need to work a little harder at the gym and watch their diet more closely.
So, the first thing you need to do is figure out what body type is yours based on the descriptions above. It should be fairly easy to figure out, and I generally recommend that people consider their experiences over many years to get the best idea.
Now here’s how to tailor your workout according to your body type…
Train for Your Body Type
How to Train as an Ectomorph
If you’re an ectomorph who’s trying to build strength and get more toned, you’re going to have to do a little work to see the results you’re looking for. In terms of workouts, your cardio should be pretty minimal, with your primary focus being on lifting weights and resistance training.
If you’re an ectomorph and looking for a good workout program to gain strength and build some muscle, check out my Advanced Workout for Lean Muscle Gain.
When it comes to reps and sets, you want to lift heavy and maximize your efforts at 8-8 reps per set. You should also be increasing your sets to 3-4 reps or more per exercise. This kind of approach will ensure the best gains possible. And when it comes to diet, you may need to increase your calorie intake to see the results, but make sure those calories are from healthy sources (and high in protein).
How to Train as a Mesomorph
Mesomorph training is generally a little easier, but sometimes it can be a challenge to see the definition you really want, despite the solid muscle mass. So you really need to take a more advanced approach to your training workouts.
What I recommend is doing a little cardio, some high intensity interval training, and engage in some really challenging Muscle Confusion Workout Routines. The combination of these approaches should help you take things to the next level.
How to Train as an Endomorph
If you’re an endomorph, your goals probably involve both weight loss and muscle building and toning. Either way, a total body approach to working out is most effective for this body type. You should be including a solid amount of cardio training, at least 5 days a week of 30 minutes a day, and a regular resistance training program.
In combination with a healthy diet, cardio and weight training will boost your metabolism in a serious way and help you achieve the physique you’re looking for.
The workouts noted above can be highly effective for this body type, but so can interval training. Take a look at my article on Interval Training for Fat Loss for some great tips, and make sure you’re making every effort possible to boost your metabolism.
Have any questions or feedback about How to Train for Your Body Type? Please leave a comment below…
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Thank you for visiting! Weight Loss and Training is a health blog which features all the best weight loss tips that I have learned over my 20 years of training. My background includes a degree in Kinesiology from the world renown Simon Fraser University, certification in nutritional sciences from UBC, and Personal Trainer Specialist certification from Can Fit Pro.