People with a mesomorph body type have average builds with the muscle definition and strength of an athlete, broad shoulders, and a narrow waist. Mesomorphs build muscle easily, and are generally more muscular than the endomorphs or ectomorphs. A fast metabolism helps people with this body type lose fat and maintain weight when they follow a healthy diet and exercise program. The mesomorph body is considered by western society to be the ideal male and female body type.
Mesomorph metabolism is faster than that of the endomorph body type but slower than the metabolism of an ectomorph. It is often easy for people with this body type to lose excess weight when they follow a low-fat, high-protein eating plan with the proper number of calories and plenty of exercise. Like people with an endomorphic body type, mesomorphs gain weight quickly if their eating plans contain too many calories from high-fat, high-sugar foods. As they age, they will need to follow a strict plan of diet and exercise to maintain their muscle mass and fitness level. Mesomorphs must be sure not to take their body type for granted, or they will become fat and unfit.
Muscle building often comes very easily to people with a mesomorph body type, which might be one of the reasons why so many professional athletes have this build. Even an out-of-shape mesomorph who wants to get back into shape may be able to quickly change flabby muscles to fit, well-defined muscles with relative ease. This is particularly the case when cardiovascular and weight-training workouts are combined and done on a regular basis. Mesomorphs are solidly built and well-suited to activities that require strength and endurance, such as swimming and hiking.
Mesomorphic men have classical masculine rectangular builds with broad shoulders. The chest tapers to a narrow waist, and the hips are not quite as wide as the shoulders are broad. Women also have broad shoulders, a narrow waist and wide hips, commonly referred to as a hourglass shape. Both men and women have medium-to-large frames. The overall look is proportional and balanced.
In western culture, the mesomorph body type is stereotypically associated with the ideal human body. People with this body type often are characterized as more attractive, more successful, and more intelligent than people with other body types. They typically are described by others as more friendly and outgoing people with natural leadership abilities and a competitive nature.
