This post was actually inspired by some BS I just read on Fb - people saying that you can maintain a perfect fit shape with just 1 training a week by eating whatever you want as long as it is healthy and you curb your appetite. That's BS, people. There are actually a very few people who are that lucky, but believe me, when you approach a certain age, you become just like any other human being in this world... training and nutrition definitely play a huge role in your body composition, but in the end it all comes down to the metabolism. have you ever wondered why certain people can eat all that junk and still remain in good shape and why some others eat super healthy and watch their diet but still can't lose weight. The answer is always hidden in you metabolism. Some people are intolerant to certain foods, some have a very high metabolism, some have it low, some absorb all the nutrients, some doesn't, some store everything as fat, some put it into muscle tissue, some have high cortisol (stress hormone) levels and gain weight, some lose it... We can't really control our metabolism, but we can get to know it and act accordingly. One thing that really affects our metabolism are the genes which determine our body type.
There are 3 different body types, but most of us are a combination of these three.
ECTOMORPH
An ectomorph is a typical skinny guy. Ecto’s have a light build with small joints and lean muscle. Usually ectomorph’s have long thin limbs with stringy muscles. Shoulders tend to be thin with little width.
TYPICAL TRAITS OF AN ECTOMORPH:
Small “delicate” frame and bone structure
Classic “hardgainer”
Flat chest
Small shoulders
Thin
Lean muscle mass
Finds it hard to gain weight
Fast metabolism
Ectomorphs find it very hard to gain weight. They have a fast metabolism which burns up calories very quickly. Ecto’s need a huge amount of calories in order to gain weight. Workouts should be short and intense focusing on big muscle groups. Supplements are definitely recommended. Ectomorphs should eat before bed to prevent muscle catabolism during the night. Generally, ectomorphs can lose fat very easily which makes cutting back to lean muscle easier for them. Cardio is and absolute no no! Keep trainings under 45 min, max 4 days a week.
MESOMORPH
A mesomorph has a large bone structure, large muscles and a naturally athletic physique. Mesomorphs are the best body type for bodybuilding. They find it quite easy to gain and lose weight. They are naturally strong which is the perfect platform for building muscle.
TYPICAL TRAITS ON A MESOMORPH:
Athletic
Generally hard body
Well defined muscles
Rectangular shaped body
Strong
Gains muscle easily
Gains fat more easily than ectomorphs
The mesomorph body type responds the best to weight training. Gains are usually seen very quickly, especially for beginners. The downside to mesomorphs is they gain fat more easily than ectomorphs. This means they must watch their calorie intake.
ENDOMORPH
The endomorph body type is solid and generally soft. Endomorphs gain fat very easily. Endo’s are usually of a shorter build with thick arms and legs. Muscles are strong, especially the upper legs. Endomorphs find they are naturally strong in leg exercises like the squat.
TYPICAL TRAITS OF AN ENDOMORPH:
Soft and round body
Gains muscle and fat very easily
Is generally short
"Stocky" build
Round physique
Finds it hard to lose fat
Slow metabolism
Muscles not so well defined
When it comes to training endomorphs find it very easy to gain weight. Unfortunately, a large portion of this weight is fat not muscle. To keep fat gain to a minimum, endomorphs must always train cardio as well as weights. Usually supplements may not be needed as long as the person has a high protein intake in their diet.
One final point I want to mention is that no matter what your body type you can build a big, ripped, muscular physique. Even the skinniest of guys can bulk up. Yes, it’s harder but if you’re willing to put in the hard work it can be done. And even an extreme endomorph can still get lean. For him it will be much much harder to maintain a fit body, but nothing is impossible if you are willing to reach your goal.
For more training and nutrition tips, please visit my FB page by clicking here
...watermelon!
Despite popular belief that watermelon is made up of only water and sugar, watermelon is actually considered a nutrient dense food, a food that provides a high amount of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for a low amount of calories.
There are five common types of watermelon: seeded, seedless, mini (my favorite), yellow (delish!) and orange.
One cup of diced watermelon (152 grams) contains:
43 calories
0 grams of fat
2 grams of sodium
11 grams of carbohydrate (including 9 grams of sugar) and 1 gram of fiber. That's why watermelon is ideal post-workout... high in sugar and low in fiber! Made up of 92% water and full of important electrolytes, watermelon is a great snack to have on hand during the hot summer months to prevent dehydration.
If you have watermelon post-workout, I would recommend having at least 3 to 6 cups. Don't forget to get your protein in!
One cup of watermelon will provide 17% of vitamin A, 21% of vitamin C, 2% of iron and 1% of calcium needs for the day.
Watermelon also contains thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, choline, lycopene and betaine.
Benefits of watermelon:
Inflammation:
Choline is a very important and versatile nutrient in watermelon that aids our bodies in sleep, muscle movement, learning and memory. Choline also helps to maintain the structure of cellular membranes, aids in the transmission of nerve impulses, assists in the absorption of fat and reduces chronic inflammation.
Muscle soreness:
Watermelon and watermelon juice have been shown to reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery time following exercise in athletes. Researchers believe this is likely do to the amino acid L-citrulline contained in watermelon.
Skin:
Watermelon is also great for your skin because it contains vitamin A, a nutrient required for sebum production that keeps hair moisturized. Vitamin A is also necessary for the growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair.
Adequate intake of vitamin C (one cup of watermelon provides 21% of daily needs) is also needed for the building and maintenance of collagen, which provides structure to skin and hair. Watermelon also contributes to overall hydration, which is vital for having healthy looking skin and hair.
Look for a watermelon that is firm, heavy and symmetrical without soft spots or bruising.
Place diced watermelon and a few ice cubes in a blender for a cold refreshing treat that's perfect for rehydrating after exercise or a day in the sun.
Jazz up a boring salad by adding watermelon, mint and fresh mozzarella to a bed of spinach leaves. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
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