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So many factors play in to staying lean and looking trim. Some we control, such as doing cardio, lifting weights, eating a sensible high-protein/low-carb diet and getting proper sleep. But other things we can’t control, such as our body type. Your body type determines how hard you must work to achieve that lean look. There are two types of body types, ectomorph and endomorph.

Ectomorphs have longer arms and legs and shorter upper bodies, with thinner, longer muscles. An ectomorph body type doesn’t store as much body fat as the endomorph and they tend to be thinner. Much of this is due to the body type’s faster metabolism.

Endomorphs store larger amounts of fat because of their lower metabolism and the fact that their bodies typically have more fat cells in the first place. Their waists are wider and their bone structure is on the larger side.

It is important to know the difference between the two so you can tailor your training to your natural body type. If you are a natural ectomorph, then you are probably naturally lean and won’t have to diet very much to stay this way. Endomorphs have to diet more than the average person. If you are an ectomorph, you must also stay consistent with your cardio, more than the average person.

Our genetic makeup dictates which one you are. Regardless of your body type, never use it as a reason to slack off. The main thing is to recognize your body type and natural metabolism, then build a sensible program that helps you reach your fitness goals. Once you determine whether you are an ectomorph or endomorph, you’re one step closer to fitness success.