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Somatotyping is a method of classifying body types - AQA - GCSE Physical Education - Question 12 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 12
Somatotyping is a method of classifying body types. Analyse how different somatotypes would be suitable for participating in different sporting activities.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Somatotyping is a method of classifying body types - AQA - GCSE Physical Education - Question 12 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Knowledge of somatotypes
Answer
There are three primary somatotypes: ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph.
- Ectomorph: Characterized by being tall and thin, with narrow shoulders and hips.
- Mesomorph: Characterized by a muscular appearance with broad shoulders and a narrow waist.
- Endomorph: Characterized by a pear-shaped body with wider hips and a good amount of body fat.
Step 2
Application of somatotypes to sporting activities
Answer
- Ectomorph: Suited to activities such as marathon running and high jump due to their lightweight frame, which reduces resistance and allows for quick performance over long distances.
- Mesomorph: Well-suited for strength-based sports such as sprinting or rugby, as their muscular build contributes to speed and power.
- Endomorph: While they may struggle in activities requiring endurance, they excel in sports like shot put and sumo wrestling, where their strength is advantageous despite potentially having less stamina.
Step 3
Analysis of somatotypes to different sporting activities
Answer
- Ectomorph: Their low body weight is beneficial in long-distance running, allowing them to cover ground efficiently. However, their lack of bulk may hinder them in strength-intensive sports like rugby, where greater mass is often advantageous.
- Mesomorph: Their muscularity enables them to generate significant power, making them effective in short-distance sprints and tackles in sports like rugby. Their body type is generally suited to activities requiring speed and strength.
- Endomorph: The pear-shaped body can be advantageous in sports requiring short bursts of power, but this body type may face challenges in endurance sports. Effective utilization of strength in activities like wrestling showcases their suitability despite limitations in other areas.