Body Type and Physical Maturation

By now, you may know that there are three general body types: mesomorphs (muscular build with broad shoulders), endomorphs (more rounded build with broad hips), and ectomorphs (slim and tall build). While these body types are generalities that don’t limit the performance potential of athletes and non-athletes completely, they do commonly mature in specific ways. 

The literature tends to show that mesomorph and endomorph body types mature early, whereas ectomorphs are, on average, late bloomers. Awareness around when and how we can expect bodies to develop guide important training considerations. While mesomorph and endomorph body-types may feel they get a head start with loading and coordinating complex movement patterns, ectomorphs that train smart may get the last laugh. 

This is particularly relevant in the emerging adolescent populations that we are incredibly lucky to have a chance to coach. Project Speed, for example, is a world-class developmental environment for speed and power for the next generation of collegiate and professional athletes. With Coach Henmi at the helm, we’ve seen high school athletes across sport disciplines earn opportunities at the highest levels of collegiate athletics. In addition, DEUCE is also in full swing coaching four daily strength and conditioning sessions at Saint Monica Catholic High School this summer. And, one thing is clear: the adolescent period is a unique developmental milestone that requires important training considerations.