Variations in Somatotypes in Young Adults in College of Health Sciences, South East Nigeria

Abstract

There is increasing concern over body image dissatisfaction, unhealthy dietary patterns, and sedentary lifestyles among university students despite the growing emphasis on fitness and wellness. This study investigated variations in somatotypes among young adults in the College of Health Sciences, Nnewi. Somatotype classifications which categorize individuals based on their physical build into three primary types- ectomorph, mesomorph and endomorph provide valuable insights into body composition and health. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted, involving structured questionnaires and anthropometric assessments of 400 students aged 18–25 years. The mean age of participants was 20.71 years, with a female predominance (56.00%). Results revealed significant gender-based differences in anthropometric indices. Male participants exhibited higher mean values in weight (75.50 kg), height (178.21 cm), waist width (80.93 cm), and hip circumference (96.86 cm) compared to females (p < 0.05). Somatotype analysis showed that 68.75% of respondents displayed endomorphy, 42.50% mesomorphy and 50.00% ectomorphy, indicating a predominance of balanced body types within the population. Males were significantly more mesomorphic (6.00) than females (3.60), while females exhibited higher endomorphic (4.30) and ectomorphic (2.90) components (p < 0.05). These findings highlight notable gender-related variations in somatotype distribution and underline the influence of lifestyle, and diet, on body composition and self-perception.