How can various body types be categorized?
William H. Sheldon in his writings (1940-2) on human physique and temperament introduced a theory outlining three basic body types. His theory has become accepted in literature dealing with weight, bodybuilding and exercise. In recent years some researchers have gone beyond these three basic categories, one even compiling a chart of 45 different body types. This new method of classification deals first with body proportion and bone structure and then allows for varying levels of fatness or thinness. Nevertheless, the three main categories commonly recognized are set out below although it must be emphasized these are broad categories. There is great variation within them and the danger of oversimplification needs to be avoided due to numerous combinations. ECTOMORPH – slender or lean • thin flat chest • delicate build • young appearance • tall • lightly muscled • stoop-shouldered • large brain • has trouble gaining weight • muscle growth takes longer MESOMORPH – more muscular • hard, mu
