What exercise is best for your body?

Do you gain weight easily, or are you one of the lucky ones who can shed fat effortlessly? Like fingerprints, every person's body is different. However, based on bone structure, muscle mass, and body fat, bodies can generally be divided into three types.

The key to knowing what exercise is best for you lies in understanding your own body. Juan Francisco Marco, a professor at the Sports Science, Training and Fitness Center in Spain, explains that the problem arises when there is a conflict of interest during exercise. "You have to decide whether you want to focus on aesthetic beauty or building inner strength," he says.

There are three body types, called 'somatotypes', based on genetics and physical characteristics:

Ectomorph
Professor Marco explains that ectomorphs are generally thin and tall, with a natural tendency to stay thin. Their limbs are long, their chests are flat, and it's hard for them to build muscle. For ectomorphs, sports such as swimming and cycling can be most beneficial. However, Professor Marko cautions that these individuals should engage in muscle-strengthening programs that focus on weight and strength training. Aerobics is not particularly useful for them, as they can lose weight easily and muscle growth can be hindered.

Endomorph
In contrast, endomorphs are short and round, with a slow metabolism that causes fat to accumulate. They easily gain muscle and excel in strength-based exercises such as weightlifting. Endomorphs need an exercise routine that emphasizes cardiovascular endurance. It is beneficial for them to start with aerobics and progress to higher intensity anaerobic exercises.

Mesomorph
Mesomorphs are naturally athletic and excel in almost any sport. According to Professor Marko, they perform well in endurance and strength-based activities such as tennis, football, rowing and triathlon. Although they have a natural advantage, mesomorphs must still watch their diet to prevent fat accumulation.

Understanding your body type is important, but that doesn't mean there isn't a mix of exercises that work for everyone. The most important thing is to know your ultimate goal and tailor your exercise and diet accordingly.