“What’s Your Body Type?
Author Geralyn B. Coopersmith shares in her book, Fit and Female, studies by psychologist William Sheldon and French physician Jean Vague. They established six body types (called the “Somatype Theory”), which are a combination of different metabolisms and body shapes:
1. Ectomorphs (high metabolism, naturally thin).
2. Mesomorphs (strong and fit, moderate metabolism, natural muscle tone).
3. Endomorphs (large boned, full-bodied, and slower metabolism).
In addition, the enhancements of “pear” or “apple” are added to complete the body shape:
• Pears are generally more curvy with smaller waists, rounder backsides, and fuller hips/thighs.
• Apples are usually slender with long, lean legs and a general gathering of weight in the stomach and middle area.
To know your possible body type, just combine the two—simple! This prototyping is obviously not set in stone, although I found similar concepts in other cultures that validate the concepts (most notably in Ayurveda, an Eastern Indian view).
It is, however, a helpful basic guide to understand your natural body structure. For example, instead of bemoaning your fuller hips, embrace your lovely pear shape and make it the best pear you can be. Stop whining and start appreciating your own beautiful shape!”
[Excerpt from Faithful, Fit & Fabulous: Get Back to Basics and Transform Your Life in 8 Weeks for only $3.99 Kindle, or $11.69 print]
