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Bio Assignment

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25 views2 pages

Bio Assignment

Uploaded by

Adrianne Alfeche
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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BIOLOGY LECTURE ASSIGNMENT

1. What determines body shape?

Body shape is affected by body fat distribution, which is correlated to current levels of sex
hormones. Unlike bone structure, muscles and fat distribution may change from time to time,
depending on food habits, exercises and hormone levels.

2. How does the following activities influence body shape?


- Genetics – Along with many other physical attributes, genes play an essential role in
determining your fitness levels. Genes determine your body size and type. Genes play a
major role in determining the muscular power and general fitness of an individual. Aerobic
fitness and sporting abilities are hereditary. Athletes inherit those genes to be athletic, so
clearly it is not all about diet and exercise when it comes to fitness. A standard plan cannot
suit everyone, everyone needs a plan tailor-made to suit his or her body type and DNA.
- Sex – Regarding physical activity, females engage in training sessions with greater volume
compared to males. This study highlights the intricate interplay of social, cultural, and
personal factors shaping gender-specific perceptions of body satisfaction and their
subsequent impact on health and lifestyle choices. In contrast, strength-trained men are not
immune to societal pressures concerning body satisfaction. While the idealized male
physique has traditionally been associated with muscularity and strength, recent studies
have revealed a growing emphasis on muscularity and leanness, indicating a shift in male
body ideals. Strength-trained men may encounter distinct challenges and experience body
dissatisfaction when they perceive their bodies as falling short of these muscular ideals,
potentially leading to behaviors such as excessive exercise or the utilization of anabolic
steroids to enhance their physical appearance. This gender difference may be partly
explained by the greater emphasis placed on appearance and thinness in female
socialization and media representations, as well as by the different sociocultural norms and
expectations regarding body size and shape for men and women
- Age – Physical activity gradually declines with age as people lose their muscle mass and
strength. During the aging process, physical activity decreases by 40%-80%, thereby
increasing the likelihood of individuals developing metabolic disorders and other chronic
diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases. Studies
showed that an increase in physical activity tends to lower the risk of having cognitive
disorders and improves the overall well-being of the human body. High level of physical
activity is proven to have positive effects on the physical, social, emotional, and healthcare
qualities of life.
- Diet – Diet is a major factor in how the body is shaped since it affects metabolism, muscle
growth, and fat storage. Weight gain and increased fat deposition, especially in the
abdomen, hips, and thighs, can result from a diet heavy in processed foods, sweets, and
unhealthy fats. In contrast, muscle growth, fat reduction, and energy regulation are
supported by a balanced diet high in protein, fibre, healthy fats, and complex carbs. These
factors can improve muscle definition and provide the appearance of leaner muscle. Over
time, a more defined body form can be achieved by maintaining proper fluid and nutritional
intake, which also affects skin tone and firmness. A negative body image can lead to dieting
and disordered eating behaviors and increases the risk for the development of an eating
disorder. A positive body image is associated with better self-esteem, self-acceptance and
healthy lifestyle behaviours, including a balanced approach to food and physical activity.
- Activity level – The individual factors are psychological, behavioral, and demographic factors
and will include age, sex, likes or dislikes, education, socioeconomic status, self-efficacy, skill
levels, and attitude towards PA. As their age increases, children are less likely to be
physically active.
3. Based on discussions, what sport activities can you think of that each body type can perform
well? Suggest a sport for each body type.

 Triangle
Triangle body shape, also known as the “pear body shape”, is one of the most common body
types out there! Its most striking feature is the beautiful, curvy hipline that is visually broader
than the shoulders.
 Inverted triangle
This is when the lower half of the body is smaller than the top, with shoulders wider than the
hips. People with this body shape tend to gain weight in the upper body and stomach areas.
They also tend to have larger chests and narrow hips.
 Rectangle
This is when there is no major definition at the waistline and hips. People with this body shape
have similar hip and shoulder width, and the body tends to be in equal proportions.
 Oval
This is when the top and bottom halves of the body are narrow. People with this body shape
tend to carry weight in the chest and stomach areas and have slender legs.
 Hourglass
This is when both the top and bottom halves of the body are equally broad. People with this
body shape tend to have a smaller waist than the chest and hips.
 Ectomorph
An ectomorph has a slender and thin shape. Their light frame makes them suited for endurance
events, such as long-distance running, and possibly for sports such as football or tennis where
height is helpful.
 Mesomorph
A mesomorph is the classic V shape, with narrow hips and a wedge-shaped body. This, along
with minimal body fat, allows them to be a candidate for a top athlete in any sport, as they
respond well to cardio and resistance training. Furthermore, as they gain or lose weight easily, it
allows them to adapt to the needs of the specific sport.
 Endomorph
Lastly, an Endomorph has a pear-shaped body with some fat on the body, upper arms and
thighs. This shape can increase muscle mass much more easily than ectomorphs. Therefore, it is
generally seen as suited to sports like power lifting and possibly inclusive sports like rugby as we
will discuss later.

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