Success as an athlete comes from a combination of factors. One major factor of our athletic ability is our genetically based body type or the body build that we are born with. The three components of one’s body build are type, size (mass) and body composition.
A system, developed by W.H. Sheldon in the 1940’s, uses the terms ectomorph, endomorph, or mesomorph to describe the three types of bodies and individual can possess. Body type can also be referenced as a person’s frame or Somatotype. By knowing an athletes or patients body type one can provide insight into what sports they may excel at or what diet and exercise regimen may be best for them.
A quick method used in the field by many physicians, athletic trainers, physical therapists and exercise physiologists to find out what body type an athlete or patient has is called the “Wrist Grab Method”. Try this method on yourself and follow these simple instructions.
Try to wrap your thumb and middle finger of one hand around the wrist of your other hand. If your middle finger and thumb barely touch then you are most likely a Mesomorph. If your thumb and middle finger barely reaches then you can consider yourself an Endomorph.
Furthermore, if your middle finger comes together easily or even over-lap slightly, you can consider yourself an Ectomorph. In essence, we are all a compilation of each body type and most people are a combination of two but this is coming from an EctoMeso.
About Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue Physical Therapy and Wellness was created at the onset of the new millennium in order to bridge the gap between strength and conditioning and rehabilitation. We have 2 clinics in New York (Grand Central & The Hamptons) and provide care to everyone at a level that Olympic athletes receive. The services we offer are physical therapy, acupuncture, yoga, massage and more.
If you’re looking to build yourself up as an athlete, why not take personal training from us? Where better to train than a place that has built up professional athletes to the highest degree.
Contact Us
If you’re in pain and need help or looking for a service we can provide for you and you’re in New York, then please contact us on 212-529-5700. Or you can fill in your details on our contact page and we will get back to you.