Contrary to popular belief, one exercise regime doesn't fit all. Each of our bodies are very different-- we put on weight differently, and the way we go about losing it should be different too. Other experts have capitalized on this idea -- the people behind Eat Right 4 Your Type, for example, recommend tailoring your diet to your blood type.

But when it comes to fitness, your uniqueness is not measured on your blood type; rather, it's measured by your body type. There are three different body types that you might have heard of: Ectomorph, endomorph and mesomorph. Not sure which one you are? Here's a breakdown:

• Ectomorphs are long and lean and have small bones and a small percentage of fat and muscle. They don't gain weight easily but when they do, it's not usually noticeable at first. They have trouble gaining muscle. (in short, they're the ones we envy)
  
• Endomorphs are round and soft -- they often have more body fat than other types, and are larger in the face and hips. Endomorphs don't have trouble gaining muscle but they have a lot of trouble losing fat -- unfortunately, it's in their genes.
  
• Mesomorphs are the ones with an athletic build. They have high muscle mass and strong bones. They are larger in the chest but typically lean all over. They have no trouble gaining muscle mass.
  

Which are you? I'm sorry to say that I'm most certainly an endomorph, because though I'm not overweight, I'm the type of person that gains fat easily and had trouble losing. I also tend to carry it in the hip area. I suspect I'm not alone -- many people appear to be endomorphs like me.

But there's no use crying about your body type; The important thing is to know what will work for you. Here are some tips.

Ectomorphs:

• Since ectomorphs have trouble gaining muscle, weight training is important -- and it will never make an ectomorph look bulky -- rather, they'll look toned. Minimal amounts of cardio will suit an ecto -- they probably don't have much fat to burn anyway
  
• Ectomorphs also typically have bad posture, so it's a good idea to do exercises for posture, like ones that challenge the back muscles. Yoga and pilates are also good for posture.
  
• Since Ectos tend to have weaker bones, gentle exercise is best.

Endomorphs:

• Endomorphs should focus on high amounts of cardio exercises in order to burn the fat their bodies are storing
• Weight training is also important though -- high-reps are best because it will help endos get toned instead of bulky

Mesomorphs:

• Mesomorphs bulk up easily, so if you're trying to look toned and lean, lengthening exercises like yoga, pilates and ballet will help.
  
• Short, intense workout sessions, including both cardio and weights, are ideal. And mesos have high metabolisms so getting adequate amounts of food is important too.

Wow, endomorphs sure get the short end of the stick, huh? Still, it's good advice no matter what your type. For more info, check out this article and this one.