Body Shapes

Everyone at this point has probably heard the theory about certain body types having a higher propensity to have weight-related health issues. Apple shaped is typically at highest risk (meaning, you carry your weight right in the middle of your body) versus pear-shaped, which carries the least risk (meaning, you are bottom heavy but overall slim from the hips up).

While this does hold some truth, this doesn't mean certain doom for the apples, and an excuse for leniency for the pears. Everyone needs to be conscious of their weight, their nutrition, their physical activity level, and what their shape really means. Your body shape does have some implications that doctors and nutritionists can use to form prognoses, come up with diet plans, and use for a variety of other information. But at the end of the day, it's just a body shape. And excess fat is still excess fat.

No matter what your body shape is, aim for 30-60 minutes of physical activity a day. Always aim for a balance of cardio and strength training. Eat mostly plants, and indulge occasionally to prevent counterproductive deprivation. And while you shouldn't ignore your body shape, use it to your benefit. Consider it another valuable piece of information in your arsenal of data as you make good, educated and informed choices about your weight loss and maintenance plan.