A swimmer works out in the pool.
You’ve probably heard the saying “practice makes perfect,” but when it comes to athletics, your genetic makeup matters, too. There are three distinct body types—the scientific term is “somatotypes”—ranging from thin with a fast metabolism to stocky with a slower metabolism. Each type responds differently to the same physical activity. If you’re working hard to improve performance, it’s important to understand your body type to make the most of your training.