The Ectomorph Dilemma

The ectomorph is the proverbial “hard gainer.” Some general traits of these lean-bodied somatotypes are: a flat chest, small shoulders, thin, small joints, droopy shoulders, long fingers, long toes, long skinny necks and, on the upside from a physique standpoint, they are relatively lean.

Do You Have An Ectomorph Body? This Is How You Should Eat & Exercise

The ectomorph body type is indeed a blessing as they can consume a diet rich in carbs when compared to endomorphs and mesomorphs, who tend to gain weight more easily and also process sugars slowly.

Ectomorph Body Type

Ectomorphs are slim-boned, long-limbed, lithe and have very little body fat and little muscle. This body type, also known as Vata in Ayurvedic medicine (used in India since ~3000 BC), is most often seen in endurance athletes, models, and basketball players.

Ectomorph Diet: A Foolproof Way To Outwit Your Genes

If you are faced with the difficulty of gaining weight no matter how hard you try, then you are most likely an ectomorph. If you are worried about looking skinny throughout your whole lifetime, you may want to pay attention to the ectomorph diet, which can help bolster your chances of gaining the needed weight and muscle.

How to Know If You're an Ectomorph

Most of us ectomorphs describe ourselves as being naturally skinny and we tend to have a hard time gaining weight. More specifically, though, ectomorphs are usually defined by having narrower shoulders, lankier longer limbs, thinner bones, and a lower body-fat percentage. Being an ectomorph is also associated with having a higher metabolism and a smaller stomach.

The Ectomorphic Body Type – Everything You Need to Know

Ectomorphs are considered energy factories. Their fast metabolism is incredibly effective at transforming carbs into fuel. This is what gives them a leaner look when compared to the other two body types. Ectomorphs generally do well at endurance sports. On the other hand, their bodies aren’t adept at building muscle mass.

Your Guide to Ectomorph Body Type, Diet, and Workout Routine

Ectomorphs have a fast metabolism, which makes it easy to get lean, and eat without gaining weight. But with age, the metabolism slows down, primarily because of low muscle mass, which can end up in an unhealthy increase in body fat. The best diet for an ectomorph is higher in calories and carbohydrates. Approx. 50-60% calories should come from the carbohydrates, 25% from protein, and 25% from fat.