Continuing our quest to understand body types, we will now look at : The Endomorph

The endomorph body type tends to store fat very easily, and frequently finds it hard to lose the fat. An endomorph can often have a sluggish metabolism, and must be particularly careful with his/her diet. Some common characteristics of the endomorph body type are:

- Tendency to be naturally overweight
- Gain fat easily
- Difficulty losing the fat
- Larger around the waist
- Possibly sensitive to carbohydrates (particularly processed and refined)
- Slow metabolism
- Body shape is more rounded or pear shaped
- Often possess reasonable strength levels

Individuals with the endomorph body type will generally find that diet alone is not sufficient enough to achieve their weight loss goals. Diet along with weight training and cardiovascular training, will help boost their slow metabolic rate. Consuming 5 – 6 small meals daily will assist in speeding metabolism. In this regard, endomorphs would have to be stricter with their daily diet and fitness activities than ectomorphs in order to see greater gains.

I love watching 'The Biggest Loser' (obviously because I'm a trainer) and season 11 has proven to be one with a difference already. The show has introduced two new trainers, apart from Bob and Jillian, but are keeping their identities secret from the viewing world for now. In episode 1, the contestants had to choose between Bob and Jillian and the 'Unknowns', as they've chosen to call the new trainers. They were also given the choice of 4 weeks immunity if they choose the 'unknowns'. I can really see how this can resonate with the general viewing public. Often times individuals tend to stick with one trainer, because they build a bond and grow to trust them. They are therefore very hesitant if they are put in a position to switch or get someone new. It's human nature. Very smart of the show to add an extra incentive to allow for an easier transition.

At the beginning of episode 2, the host, Alison Sweeney, acknowledges that group 2, the group with the 'unknown trainers' blew group one out of the water when it came to first week weight loss. She poses a challenge to group one that if they lose more weight that week than group two, then they will get immunity and cash.

In as much as I love the show, and think that a little competition is a great motivator, I can't help but think of how this show is laden with unhealthy practices. These contestants, I believe, are now going to cut calories even further and try to exercise even harder to lose the weight faster. This will in the end (meaning long after they leave the show) put them at risk of weight gain (be it major or minor). Their skin will also not be able to bounce back as quickly leaving them with extra flab.

I think that the first few seasons of Biggest Loser did more to educate and help the contestants and now the producers are just getting crazy for ratings and not thinking about the consequences as much. We have no idea what's going on behind the scenes and when the cameras aren't rolling.

What do you think? Let me know...

I look forward to hearing your views.

Are you one of those people that check their weight everyday? First thing in the morning or after a workout is usually the norm. I'm here to tell you... STEP OFF THE SCALE!!
It is not necessary to check our weight everyday or every other day, for that matter. If your trying to lose weight the 'HEALTHY WAY', You may only be trimming down 1-2 LBS  per week; you may also be putting on muscle with your weight training program. It is better to check your progress every two weeks (one week if you're on a very intense program). Mark your calender and make an event of it. Not only will you be happy with what you see, it will keep you motivated day after day.

And to take this a step further... be brave and throw your scale out completely. Is there a dress, pair of pants, bathing suit or suit that you want to fit into? Use that as your benchmark. Monitor how your clothes are fitting, as a way to tell if you're on the right track or not, or have a loved one or trainer, measure your girth measurements (around your waist,arms and/or thighs) every two weeks, and watch those numbers disappear.  

DON'T BE A SLAVE TO THE SCALE!!