Somatotyyppimenetelmä

Somatotyyppimenetelmä, also known as somatotyping, is a classification system that categorizes human physiques into three basic types: endomorphic, mesomorphic, and ectomorphic. This method was developed by William Herbert Sheldon in the 1940s. Each somatotype represents a predominant pattern of body fat distribution, muscularity, and skeletal structure.

The endomorphic type is characterized by a rounder, softer physique with a tendency to store fat. Individuals with this somatotype often have a wider waist and a shorter, thicker build. The mesomorphic type is characterized by a more athletic, muscular, and hard physique. These individuals typically have broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and well-defined muscles. The ectomorphic type is characterized by a slender, linear physique with less body fat and muscle mass. They tend to have long limbs, narrow shoulders, and a smaller frame.

Sheldon developed a numerical system to assess somatotypes, assigning a three-digit number where each digit corresponds to the relative dominance of endomorphy, mesomorphy, and ectomorphy, respectively. For example, a person might be rated 7-1-1, indicating a strong endomorphic component with little mesomorphy or ectomorphy. It is important to note that most people are a combination of these types, rather than a pure representation of a single somatotype. The method has been used in various fields, including anthropology, psychology, and sports science, though its scientific validity and applications are subjects of ongoing discussion and refinement.