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Fitness for your body blueprint

At first, this may seem like bad news. However, it should be a welcome relief from the pressure of endlessly trying to achieve a body for which you are not designed. There are three basic body types: the ectomorph, the endomorph and the mesomorph. Whatever your type, follow a workout that’s designed to make the most of it.

• Ectomorphs are long, wiry and narrow. They generally have delicate bone structures and shoulders and hips that are approximately the same width. Accomplished long-distance runners and ballerinas are often ectomorphs. (Darcey Bussell, Thandie Newton and Kylie Minogue are examples of in-shape ectomorphs.)

  Weight training strategy: Build up muscle with two to four sets of weight training exercises per body part. Use a moderate-to-heavy weight that you can lift with good form for six to ten repetitions. Consider doing a split routine where you work some parts of the body one day and then others the next.

  Cardio training strategy: Your goal is to up your stamina and whip your heart and lungs into shape, so include cardio exercise three to five times a week. Aim for 20 to 40 minutes per session at a moderate-to-intense workout level.

• Endomorphs are soft, curvy and often ‘pear-shaped’ – that is, their hips are often wider than their shoulders. Although this body type holds onto fat a little more tenaciously than the others, many famous actresses and singers are wonderful examples of how sexy and curvaceous endomorphs can be. (Jennifer Lopez, Liz Hurley and Minnie Driver are examples of in-shape endomorphs.)
  
  
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