Smoothy Slim
Photo by Victor Freitas Pexels Logo Photo: Victor Freitas

What are the three body types for losing weight?

There are three metabolism types: mesomorph, ectomorph, and endomorph. ... Awareness of these metabolism categories essentially gives you better knowledge on how to lose weight and stay healthy. Following a metabolic diet based on your body shape may be helpful. More items...

Which hormone causes belly fat?
Which hormone causes belly fat?

High Leptin High levels of the hormone leptin are also associated with increased weight gain in the lower belly. Fat cells release leptin, which...

Read More »
Can you eat bananas while detoxing?
Can you eat bananas while detoxing?

Choose Bananas as a Go-To Snack Interestingly, bananas have also been linked to reducing depression. They can help you with any gastrointestinal...

Read More »
Strange purple cocktail removes 2.7lbs every 4 days
Strange purple cocktail removes 2.7lbs every 4 days

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »

By: Chris Freytag, CPT // June 3, 2022

People come in all shapes in sizes, depending on both your genetics and lifestyle choices. But did you know there are three main categories of body types people typically fall under? Or maybe you’ve even wondered – what is my metabolic type? In this guide, we break down the different types of metabolism in detail and what adjustments you can make to your diet and fitness routine based on this information. There are three metabolism types: mesomorph, ectomorph, and endomorph. Learning about the types of metabolism can help you train and eat specifically for your body type.

Benefits of Understanding the Different Types of Metabolism

Awareness of these metabolism categories essentially gives you better knowledge on how to lose weight and stay healthy. Following a metabolic diet based on your body shape may be helpful. The idea is that people have different macronutrient needs based on their metabolic types. Just remember: Plenty of people are a mixed type and therefore a combination of two body types as well, so don’t stress about completely fitting the bill of one specifically. Direct your energy toward the traits and the advice that resonate the most with your body.

How Do I Know My Metabolism Type?

Learning about the types of metabolism is fascinating. Below we outline the characteristics of each so you can start to assess which category you might fall into.

The Ectomorph Metabolic Body Type

Ectomorphs are typically slender with small joints and a light build. Think that slim friend who tends to eat whatever she wants without putting on a pound. Ectomorphs have a narrow frame and fast metabolism, meaning they’re often able to overeat without gaining much weight.

Ectomorph Characteristics

Thin, lean body

Flat chest

Small shoulders

Not muscular

Fast metabolism

Prone to periods of hyperactivity

Hard to gain weight

Always eat breakfast as a part of your diet! Try one of my favorite, easy healthy breakfast recipes. Your body tends to use all three macronutrients equally. Also known as a Triple Macro Burner.

Eat a greater amount of healthy whole grains, complex carbohydrates, especially post-workout.

Eat more frequently; eating 6 smaller meals spread over the course of the day instead of 3 larger ones

Supplement with protein shakes like this Peanut Butter Cup Protein Smoothie

before or after your workouts

If you’re not already, be sure you’re incorporating strength training into your weekly workouts and prioritize strength training over cardio; focus on simple strength workouts 3 days a week that hone in on all the major muscle groups. Try some compound moves and work towards heavier weights to see some changes.

Here are some great strength workouts for Ectomorphs:

Often an ectomorph hasn’t given strength training a proper chance, because it feels hard to put on the muscle. Stay consistent, go heavier and you may see muscles emerge.

Summary

If are an ectomorph metabolic type and are looking to maintain a healthy weight while getting stronger, it’s key to get enough protein and incorporate strength training into your workout routine.

Related: The Dangers of Being Skinny Fat

Is 10 sessions of laser enough?
Is 10 sessions of laser enough?

In general 6-10+ sessions are needed initially for laser hair removal. Additionally top ups are required to maintain results. After an initial...

Read More »
Are boiled eggs constipating?
Are boiled eggs constipating?

“It's a complete myth that eggs alone make you constipated. However, a high fat, high protein, low fibre diet can affect bowel regularity so if you...

Read More »
Fizzy juice “eats through” 59lbs of stubborn fat
Fizzy juice “eats through” 59lbs of stubborn fat

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »

The Mesomorph Metabolic Body Type

Mesomorphs typically have an athletic, medium build and can gain muscle easily. Unfortunately, they also gain fat easily, so they need to be careful not to overeat—which they many tend to do because they take their naturally athletic body for granted.

Mesomorph Characteristics

Athletic

Medium-sized body structure

Strong

Broad shoulders

Gains muscle easily

Responds well to exercise

If have extra body fat, tend to carry it in the lower body Focus on getting a healthy mix of complex carbs, proteins, and fats -making sure your carb intake is heavy on plants and high fiber. Try these delicious low-carb zucchini recipes Your body tends to like sugar. Avoid white flour and sugar. As a Dual Macro Burner, (DMB metabolic type) your carb and protein intake may be higher. Include a good source of protein with every meal. Focus on lower-fat foods. If weight loss is your goal, cut back on processed foods. Many mesomorphs see quick weight loss results from switching to a higher protein, healthy carb diet . Mesomorphs respond quickly to exercise, so your body will benefit from any activity. Combine an equal mix of cardio and strength training weekly for best results. Incorporating plyometric exercises will take your fitness routine to the next level. Try these power moves: Don’t coast on your naturally athletic frame—take advantage of it by challenging yourself and reaping the rewards!

Summary

People with a mesomorph metabolic body type should get a proper mix of strength training and cardio, and try to cut back on their carb intake if they want to lose weight.

The Endomorph Metabolic Body Type

Endomorphs have a larger bone structure and more overall body fat—evolutionarily speaking, you’re better at storing nutrients than the other two types. This metabolic category generally has thicker arms and legs with a round body. It can be hard for an endomorph to lose weight, but not impossible! They typically have strong leg muscles and weaker upper body muscles.

Endomorph Characteristics

Round body

Medium to large joints + bones

Gain muscle

Gain weight and fat easily

Strong leg muscles

Find it hard to lose weight

Fatigues easily

Slow metabolism

Limit carbohydrate foods when possible—except for veggies, fruit, and whole grains.

Make sure you’re eating enough fiber each day to keep you full without binging on unhealthy foods . . Many endomorphs see great weight loss success from a Paleo-centric diet . A paleo diet can have a positive impact on blood sugar. A paleo diet can have a positive impact on blood sugar. Your type is also known as a Protein Dominant Burner and you should focus on high-quality protein and low carbs. For PDB metabolic types healthy fats are fuel and they keep you satiated longer. In a PDB metabolic type diet be aware of how many fat grams you eat because they are higher in calories per gram. Calorie intake is key, so make sure to keep track with a food journal or a tracking app! Focus on losing weight through cardio and strength combo workouts. Interval-style routines maybe your best friend.

What can I eat instead of rice?
What can I eat instead of rice?

12 rice substitutes suitable for all diets Barley. Quinoa. Riced cauliflower. Riced broccoli. Shredded cabbage. Shirataki konjac rice. Couscous....

Read More »
What does beetroot and cucumber do to the body?
What does beetroot and cucumber do to the body?

This glorious root vegetable is not only a great source of potassium, it also helps to lower blood pressure and is also a great source of minerals,...

Read More »
Fizzy juice “chews through” 63lbs of fat
Fizzy juice “chews through” 63lbs of fat

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »

For weight loss, Ditch the long, slow treadmill workouts in favor of a 30-minute HIIT class. You’ll be dripping sweat and burning fat and it’s better cardio for your heart and your body than a slow, steady-state jog. Know that because you can’t spot-reduce body fat, all the crunches in the world won’t give you six-pack abs if you have fat covering the muscle. So aim to lose body fat all over to start.

Deciding Which Metabolic Body Type You Are

Did you see yourself in one of these body types—or perhaps a combination of two? Knowing the types of metabolism can really help you understand your unique body type and how to really work with it, not against it. Using these tips is a way to maximize your weight loss potential and help you make the most of your genetic makeup. We are all born beautiful in our individual shape and size; listen to your body and use only the advice that resonates with you.

How to Use Your Metabolic Type for Weightloss

If you would like to lose weight, using the metabolic body types can be an advantage. Now that you have an awareness of whether you’re a mesomorph, endomorph, or ectomorph, you can understand which foods and activities are best for your health and fitness goals. If you’re a mesomorph you are lucky to gain muscle easily, so strength training will be a welcome addition to your workout routine. However, you will need to be vigilant about your diet, as your metabolic profile also gains fat quickly. That awareness will help you make more informed food choices on a daily basis. If you’re an endomorph your body converts carbohydrates with some trouble. This could be a major insight you’ve been missing for years. Trying a paleo or low-carb eating plan for a few weeks could help you shed those hard-to-lose pounds – finally! If you’re an ectomorph, people may think you are the skinny friend that has it easy because you can stay slender no matter what. But maintaining strength takes work. Knowing your metabolic type helps you prioritize protein and make meal timing more consistent.

Remember Every Body is Beautiful

Ectomorph mesomorph and endomorph are just categories – every body is beautifully unique. At the end of the day, a metabolic type is just a small part of who we are. The most important thing to remember is to enjoy the journey of health and fitness and be proud of what your body can do for you.

READ THIS NEXT: How to Increase Your Metabolism After 50

What are the first signs of weight loss?
What are the first signs of weight loss?

10 signs you're losing weight You're not hungry all the time. ... Your sense of well-being improves. ... Your clothes fit differently. ... You're...

Read More »
What fruit has most calcium?
What fruit has most calcium?

Figs, oranges, blackcurrants, and blackberries are worth adding to your diet. They're fruits with the highest amounts of easily absorbable calcium.

Read More »
Purple mojito “devours” 57lbs of flab?
Purple mojito “devours” 57lbs of flab?

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »
What is the number 1 most healthy fruit?
What is the number 1 most healthy fruit?

Good choices include oranges, blueberries, apples, avocados, and bananas, but there are many more to choose from. Fruits are an excellent source of...

Read More »
Strange purple cocktail removes 2.7lbs every 4 days
Strange purple cocktail removes 2.7lbs every 4 days

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »
How to lose 10kg?
How to lose 10kg?

We need at least 1,500-2,000 calories in a day. By planning 10 kg weight loss in one month, we reduce it to 1,000 calories per day. To lose 10 kgs,...

Read More »