Body Type (Frame)

Estimates your frame tendency (ectomorph / mesomorph / endomorph) using mostly bone-structure proxies (wrist, ankle, elbow, knee), with an optional body-fat correction.

What you will need
  • A flexible measuring tape (cm or inches).
  • Pen/paper or your phone to record each of the 4 readings.

Measure on bare skin where possible. The tape should be snug but not digging in or compressing tissue.

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How this calculator works

This tool estimates your frame tendency (ecto / meso / endo) using mostly bone-structure proxies (wrist, ankle, elbow, knee) relative to your height. It’s not a “label for life” — it’s a practical snapshot of how your structure may influence training and weight change.

What “body type” means here

In this calculator, “body type” refers to a frame/structure tendency: smaller joints often trend ecto, medium trends meso, and larger joints trend endo. It’s about structure more than appearance.

What we measure (and why)

  • Wrist & ankle are strong signals for frame size.
  • Knee and elbow add extra context (but are weaker signals).
  • Height helps scale the measurements so tall vs short isn’t penalised.

Optional body fat correction

At higher body-fat levels, some circumferences can be inflated by soft tissue. If you know your body fat %, the model can apply a conservative correction mainly to ankle and knee to reduce false “large frame” readings.

If you don’t know your body fat %, leave this off — your frame estimate will still work.

How to measure accurately

  • Measure on bare skin if possible.
  • Keep tape snug, not compressing.
  • Stay relaxed — don’t flex or “pose” the joint.
  • Take 2–3 readings and use the most consistent number.

What to do with your result

  • Ecto-leaning: often benefits from patient surplus + progressive overload.
  • Meso-leaning: usually responds quickly to training and balanced nutrition.
  • Endo-leaning: often thrives with consistent intake, steps/cardio, and strength focus.

Your habits matter more than your label — the result is a starting point for smarter decisions.

Limitations (important)

  • This is an estimate, not a medical classification.
  • Muscle and fat can still influence joint measurements a bit.
  • Most people are a blend — not 100% one type.
  • Your “type” doesn’t lock your potential. Training adapts you.

Quick workflow

Choose sex Pick cm / inches Enter height Measure 4 joints Optional BF% Get frame tendency

If your readings feel “on the border”, don’t stress — being between types is normal.

Mini FAQ

Is this the same as body shape?

Not exactly. Body type (frame) is about structural tendency (joints/frame). Body shape is more about where measurements sit (waist/hips/shoulders) and proportions. They answer different questions — both can be useful.

Can I change my body type?

Your bone structure doesn’t change much, but your look and performance absolutely can. Muscle gain, fat loss, posture, and training style can dramatically change how you appear and move.

My result doesn’t match what I “look like” — why?

Many people carry more fat or muscle that changes appearance. This tool focuses on frame signals, not visual stereotypes. Also, measurement error (tape tightness, location) can shift the estimate — try re-measuring calmly.

Do I need to use the body fat correction?

Only if you already know your body fat % and you’re on the higher side. Otherwise, leave it off — the calculator is designed to work without it.

How often should I re-test?

Frame signals won’t change fast, so there’s no need to do this frequently. Re-test only if you believe your measurements were off, or after a major body composition change.

Have more questions? Visit the full FAQs.

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