The healthy fitness equation seems easy: you need to always balance nutrition with physical exercise. But, nutrition is often overlooked when you are trying to meet your fitness goals. While it does not sound fair, science classifies all people with one of these three body types:

· Ectomorphs: narrow shoulders and hips, thin and narrow chest, thin legs and arms, with very little body fat. Their engine speed is set to “high revving”. They typically have a fast-metabolic rate. They’re high-energy and tend to burn off excess calories with near-constant movement throughout the day. They tolerate carbs good. Ectomorphs generally do best with more carbohydrates in their diet, along with a moderate protein, and lower fat intake. A nutrient distribution for this body type is around 55% carbs, 25% protein, and 20% fat.

· Mesomorphs: the “desirable” body, with broad shoulders and narrow waist, muscular with strong legs and arms, long torso and broad chest, and a little body fat. Their bodies are designed to be powerful machines. They tend to be testosterone and growth hormone dominant. Thus, they can usually gain muscle and stay lean easily. Mesomorphs usually do best on a mixed diet, with balanced carbohydrates, proteins, and fats – like around 40% carbs, 30% protein, and 30% fats.

Endomorphs: the “pear” body with narrow shoulders and wide hips, big bone structure except for ankles and wrists, and high body fat. Their engine speed is set to “idle” and they are less active. They typically have a slower metabolic rate and generally don’t tolerate carbohydrates as well. Endomorphs generally do best on a higher fat and protein diet with carbohydrate intake being lower and consumed after exercise. A nutrient distribution these folks is around 25% carbs, 35% protein, and 40% fat.