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Testing, Testing 123: Phlebotomy Basics

When my mother underwent chemotherapy, we spent a lot of time visiting the phlebotomy lab for blood testing. I was always impressed by how easily the phlebotomist was able to find and puncture a vein to draw blood on the first try. I knew there had to be a method to it, and was astounded by how effortless and painless they made the process. It led me to research a lot about blood tests, from drawing to the actual screening. I've created this site to share what I've learned in the hopes of teaching others. The more you understand, the more control you can have over your own health care.

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Testing, Testing 123: Phlebotomy Basics

Somatotypes: Can You Improve Your Physical Health Based On Your Body Type?

by Francisco Arnold

If you're a combination of body types (or somatotypes), it may be difficult for you to achieve the personal goals you set for yourself. Your unique body may actually require specific types of food and exercise to maximize your physical goals. If you don't use the right resources based on your body type, the struggle to reach your goals may become even more difficult with time. Learn more about somatotype and how to improve your physical health below.

What Exactly Does Somatotype Mean?

Somatotype describes the shape of an individual's body. Specialists, such as fitness experts and doctors, currently recognize three types of somatotypes: mesomorph, endomorph, and ectomorph. Knowing the differences between each somatotype may allow you to reach your physical or health goals better.

Adults who don't gain weight easily usually fall into the ectomorph category. Ectomorphs tend to have long, narrow upper bodies and very little muscle and body fat. Because ectomorphs possess fast metabolisms, they may struggle to gain weight or muscle growth, even after they eat a lot of food or embark on a strenuous weight training plan. 

Mesomorphs tend to have muscular bodies and can maintain or lose excess weight in a reasonable time period. This somatotype can be strong as well as athletic in nature.

Finally due to their slow metabolisms, endomorphs tend to struggle with weight gain and muscle growth. Endomorphs may also have stout or compact physiques that may make them appear overweight or obese.

Some adults may be a combination of the body types above. The combination of body types can make it very hard to lose or gain weight and muscle strength in different areas of the body. For example, if you fall into the mesomorph/endomorph category, you may find it difficult to lose fat in your chest but very easy to build strong, lean muscles in your legs. Although you might try different diets or exercise routines to improve your physical appearance, you might not see the results you desire in a reasonable period of time.

In order to reach the goals you set for yourself, you may need to obtain professional help to overcome your dilemma.

How Do You Diet and Exercise Based on Your Body Type?

You can continue to meet your goals alone, or you can reach out to a personal trainer for assistance. A personal trainer, or fitness guide, can examine your somatotype and help you choose a fitness plan and schedule that works best for it. For instance, if you're an ectomorph who can't gain muscle in your arms or strength in your core, a trainer may have you focus on strength and core exercises during your sessions.

Additionally, you should consume foods that encourage your body to burn fat stored in your upper or lower body. A personal trainer may ask you to eat foods that contain more protein-based ingredients and fewer carbohydrates. You may also need to consume specific types of fruit and vegetables. If your body lacks fluid, you may need to amp up your fluid intake. If you're dehydrated, your body may hold on to excess fluid and make you appear larger than you actually are. 

It's crucial that you follow a fitness trainer's plans for you properly. But if you find the plans too difficult to follow or maintain, speak to a trainer immediately. Your plan or schedule may be too strenuous for your body type. You may also need shorter sessions to reach your physical goals. 

For more details about somatotypes and how you can reach your fitness goals based on your unique body type, contact a personal trainer today.

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