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While most people understand the crucial role that exercising regularly has in keeping them fit and healthy, few are aware about the importance of matching their exercise routine to their body type.

The effectiveness of any form of exercise heavily depends on your body type. Different types of exercise are beneficial for different body types. This is why you should always take this very important aspect into consideration before deciding for a specific exercise routine.

The three body types are: endomorph, mesomorph and ectomorph. Being aware of the types of exercise that would best suit your body will prove very beneficial in the long term because you will be able to achieve the best results possible with less effort.

Endomorphs have a 'round' body, with wide hips and narrow shoulders. They have quite an amount fat distributed all over their body, which can hide the appearance of muscles. They easily gain weight because of their slow metabolism; however, losing it is more difficult. A typical example of an endomorph would be a professional bodybuilder or Olympic weight lifter. The most recommended exercises for this body type are weight lifting and strength training exercises such as swimming. Though endomorphs naturally have good stamina, they will find fast paced sports difficult.

Mesomorphs are the most desirable body type. They typically have very little body fat and they have great potential to excel at bodybuilding. Because they have a good metabolism, gaining or losing weight will be an easy task. They usually perform well in exercises that combine their various skills such as speed, strength and flexibility. An example of a healthy mesomorph is a football player. Mesomorphs should ideally practice fast paced sports, yoga and Pilates.

Ectomorphs are naturally tall and lean, with little fat or muscle mass. Because of their high metabolic rate, they can lose weight fast, but they have trouble gaining muscle mass or fat. An example of a healthy ectomorph would be a typical basketball player or swimmer. Ectomorphs will not benefit from aerobic exercises or the treadmill. The most recommended exercises for this body type are cardio, running and weight lifting.

Knowing your body type is very important because each type responds differently to exercise. By matching your exercise routine and diet to your body type, you will be able to reach your goal faster and easier, maintain your ideal weight and avoid a lot of frustration.

Learn more about this author, Anja Emerson.
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