Ecto, Endo, Meso, or Combo

A key player in your weight and body structure is not just diet and exercise, but your grandma Alice…or genetics. You inherit one or a combination of three body types from your family.

The Body Types:

Ectomorphs - they are usually tall and thin, with small frames, and long arms and legs. They have a difficult time gaining weight or muscle because of a very fast metabolism. Examples would be Tom Hanks, Edward Norton, Adrian Brody, Nicole Kidman.

Mesomorphs - have a broad, muscular upper body with a thin waist. They look stocky or compact. Mesomorphs gain muscle very easily and maintain body fat with a fast metabolism. Examples, Sylvester Stallone, Demi Moore

Endomorphs - have a round soft appearance, with shoulders usually narrower than their hips. They tend to be overweight. It's difficult for endomorphs to lose body fat. Examples, John Goodman, Rosie O"Donnell


Just remember that you are in control. Even though you may be predisposed to being overweight, it will be the choices you make and your lifestyle that will have the ultimate say.