What's My Body Shape?

People come in all shapes and sizes, and this sometimes makes the 'one size fits all' approach rather difficult - particularly when choosing which clothes to buy, and which exercise and dietary regimes to follow. After all, what suits your friend may not suit you, and rather than trying to shoe-horn yourself into something that's not right for you - you can use a little knowledge about the different body shapes to your benefit!

There are basically three main body shapes recognised by the health and medical profession.

Ectomorphs
These people have slim bodies and long lean limbs, with shoulders and hips of a similar width. They find it very difficult to build muscles, and have a hard time maintaining their weight. This body type is also rather more prone to injuries than other types, so they should look to stretch properly before and after exercise to avoid pulls and sprains. Good types of exercise include cycling, martial arts and fast walking or jogging - this type has good explosive energy and speed. In terms of clothes, this type can get away with most things - fitted looks are best to create curves and they can generally carry off more daring styles. Long slim legs can be shown off to great effect with short skirts or skinny jeans!

Endomorphs
These types are the classic pear shape - the shape most seen in the UK. It's a round, soft and curvy body type with a relatively larger bone structure. This type can put on muscle, but they may find losing fat and weight in general somewhat harder. Women should focus on weight training though to build lean muscle and keep fat under control - as well as boosting metabolism. Cross training, weights, interval training and hill walking are ideal exercises. Good clothing choice include fitted tops and flowing and lower cut trousers and jeans. Aim to wear heels where you can to lengthen legs, and show off your neat top half and trim arms!

Mesomorphs
These types are classic rugby players! They have broad shoulders and large or medium frames. They loose weight quite easily, and gain muscle easily. Boot camp is ideal for their fitness! Weight training is also good, as well as yoga. These are strong types and tend to be strong. In terms of choosing fashions, your body shape is balanced, so show off your favourite part - whether it's your well defined calves, strong arms or excellent muscle tone - don't be tempted to hide away under baggy or shapeless clothes.

The important thing about each type is recognising that you can't necessarily change to a different type, but you can look fantastic regardless of your basic body make up! Keep fit and exercise to look and feel your best, and stick to a healthy diet to keep fat and weight at healthy levels. Similarly with clothing, look at friends and people with similar shapes that wear fashions and styles that you admire, and ask them for tips and guidance! Whatever you do, don't attempt to copy the fashions of your skinny ectomorph friend if you're a broad mesomorph.. but just remember that she will probably by envying your well developed chest, despite her long thin legs!

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Marie Hilland

Fashion Director of The 'It' Guide

The 'It' Guide - UK

The 'It' Guide - USA

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