Anthropometric Somatotypes

Anthropometric measurements can be used to

describe particular human physiques, known as
somatotypes. There are three main somatotypes as
illustrated below (endomorph, ectomorph, and
mesomorph), although some individuals may represent a
hybrid of two somatotypes.

 An endomorph refers to humans whose tissues are

predominantly derived from the endoderm, exhibited
by a soft, round shape, large digestive viscera, fat
accumulation, large trunk, and tapering extremities.
The degree of endomorphy is calculated based on
the measurement of triceps, subscapular, and
suprailiac skinfold thickness corrected for height
as an indication of the amount of fat in the body.

 A mesomorph refers to humans whose tissues are

derived primarily from the mesoderm, exhibited by
increased muscle, bone, and connective tissue. Such
 individuals typically have a hard physique and
rectangular shape, intermediate between the endo-
and ectomorph.

 Ectomorph refers to humans whose tissues are

derived primarily from the ectoderm, exhibited by a
linear body shape, large surface area, thin muscles
and subcutaneous tissue, and moderately developed
digestive viscera. Ectomorphy is calculated by
obtaining height and mass measurements and
assessing the level of linearity.