A paradigm on body composition known as the “Somatotype” or “Body Type” model. While somewhat outdated and limited, it can still be a helpful tool for general planning. Body types fall on a scale from “endomorph” to “mesomorph” to “ectomorph.”
Where you fall on this spectrum tends to influence how you lose weight and build muscle. It also speaks to your metabolism, daily NEAT activity, even your (initial) response to cold stress.
Knowing your body type can initially help inform your body recomposition strategies.
Ectomorph —
tends to be skinny, a ‘hard gainer’ who can’t put on mass, either fat or muscle. Has to eat a lot to keep on weight, usually has high levels of NEAT; moves around a lot throughout the day, may fidget a lot, etc.
Has an easy time losing fat, but a hard time gaining muscle.
Response —
tends to burn a lot of fat, quickly. May also notice the ‘relaxing’ aspects of CT sessions more profoundly.
Mesomorph –-
medium build, athletic, tends to be somewhat lean, yet muscular. Can both lose fat and build muscle at a moderate rate.
Response —
moderate fat burning, possibly accelerates around 3-5 weeks in. Moderate PWO recovery and muscle building improvements.
Endomorph —
Thick and stocky build. Easily packs on both muscle and fat. “Big boned,” thick joints, slow metabolism.
Response —
Slow, steady, and consistent fat loss, great PWO recovery and muscle, strength, and endurance building. Enhances insulin sensitivity.
Knowing your Body Type, as well as your Set Point and the aspects of CICO may help inform you of effective, personalized Cool Fat Burner and general weight loss goals and strategies. Will cold thermogenesis have it’s biggest effect on fat lost, muscle building, workout recovery, insulin sensitivity, or rest and relaxation?
NOTE: the Body Type model is not considered accurate by some in the health and fitness field, and
regardless, is not something to be adhered to rigidly, but instead should merely give a general idea of
how to start out, and what to expect. Almost no one fits just one type, but instead is a blend of types.
And as you change your body composition, many of the variables — Body Type attributes, Set Point,
and your CICO elements — may shift and change as well.