Body Types: Are You an Ectomorph, Mesomorph, or Endomorph?

The three classic body types—ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph—were introduced in the 1940s as a way to describe general patterns in body shape. While these categories can help explain certain physical tendencies, modern research shows that most people are actually a blend of more than one body type. Factors such as genetics, diet, physical activity, sleep, age, and overall health all play important roles in determining body composition.

Here’s what each body type typically looks like and how you can tailor your nutrition and fitness routine to support your goals.

What Is a Body Type?