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Weight Training GuidesWeight Training GuidesClosely related to genetics is the topic of somato-types. One method of classifying body types in weight training guides is to use Dr. William Herbert Sheldon's three-category system. By photographing 46,000 men and women, Sheldon came up with 88 distinct categories, calling them somato-types. For simplicity he proposed grouping these types into three major categories - ectomorph, mesomorph and endomorph. Long thin bones characterize the ectomorph. Ectomorphs tend to be taller than persons of the other two categories. Because of their low levels of body fat ectomorphs are routinely described as skinny and need to adopt a different weight-training guides for weight-lifting. Weight training guides defines Mesomorphs, those who have a greater than average rate of muscle growth. With their large bones and low fat levels, mesomorphs have wide shoulders and small waists. Endomorphs, perhaps the type most commonly seen in today's society, have relatively more fat cells than the other two groups. They appear rounded and shorter in stature. It would be nice and convenient if we all fit neatly into one of these categories. Unfortunately we don't, and most individuals are a combination of all three. Taking this fact into account, Sheldon devised a scale to rank the dominance of each somato-type. Within each of the three major divisions, there are seven degrees of dominance; therefore, the scale ranges from one to seven, with seven being dominant. For example, a person with ectomorphic 1, mesomorphic 5, and endomorphic 4 would be endo-mesomorphic, a muscular type with a moderate amount of body fat. Someone who was ectomorphic 5, mesomorphic 3 and endomorphic 1 would be ecto-mesomorphic, a lean individual who has trouble gaining muscle mass. Although other factors play a role, the following generalizations can be made towards weight training guides. Ectomorphs: As ectomorphs have trouble gaining muscle mass, in the weight-training guides we suggest is to keep workouts short. Perform basic exercises only, with an emphasis on low rep sets of 6 to 8. If at all possible avoid aerobics. A couple of 20-minute sessions of weight-lifting, a week would probably not hurt, but calories should be saved for building muscle tissue. As for nutrition, ectomorphs can pay the least attention to diet and get away with it at least from the point of view of gaining fat. Optimum nutrition, however, is still needed to gain quality muscle mass. Because of high metabolism, ectomorphs burn calories at a very fast rate, so when offered a second piece of meatloaf, take it, Weight training guides suggest, supplement meals with a good protein drink. Endomorphs: Have tendency towards fat storage. For Endomorphs, in the weight-training guides we suggest, should keep the rep range high and the time between set low. This approach helps burn off excess calories. Unlike ectomorphs, endomorphs have no problem finding calories to work with. On the contrary, they have too many. To combat this excess, add an aerobic exercise such as swimming or jogging two or three times per week. Endomorphs would be wise to modify eating patterns, keeping fat intake as low as possible. Simple sugars should be avoided. Keep calorie intake low and don't be afraid to leave the table slightly hungry. This way the body will rely on stored fat as an energy source. Mesomorphs: With their capacity for developing muscle tissue, and ability (to keep fat levels low, this group is the most suited of the three for bodybuilding. These individuals can handle the long, intense workouts necessary for building a championship physique for maximum benefit of weight-training guides. |