Genetics and sports: how your DNA can influence your physical performance

Why genetics and sport are so closely related

The first thing we must remember is that the genetic inheritance It's been proven since the 19th century. Children inherit certain traits from their parents, to a greater or lesser extent. And this is a visible reflection of their genes.

If we take it to the field of sport, there is no doubt that those genes influence when it comes to having older children capabilities . This does not imply, obviously, that one should not work or train, but there is a predisposition that, when well focused, can give a much greater performance. In fact, it is estimated that these mutations , which are calculated in more than 200 polymorphisms, can determine up to a 66% of the competitive advantage of an athlete. We will find this, above all, in the variations of genes ACTN3 and ACE .

On the other hand, we must remember that the epigenetics It also has a significant influence. It's not just heredity, but also interaction with the environment. Ultimately, it also determines the environment, which is why it must be carefully considered to achieve objectives. All these factors contribute to a certain organic disposition.

Let's see, in any case, how genetics influences athletes' better preparation:

1. Energy production and recovery

The energy production and recovery These are two fundamental qualities for a good athlete. In the first case, it is closely linked to the strength sports , from athletics to weightlifting, specifically in the ACTN3 gene . On the other hand, recovery allows for significant efforts to be made in a short period of time; a paradigmatic case is that of endurance sports like cycling, where the genotype 577XX has significant importance.

2. Skeletal development

Genetics also influences, for better or worse, the development of the skeleton . And although some characteristics can already be seen in the phenotype, when we go further we have additional details. For example, a certain genetic inheritance can favor greater bone density , which is what we find with the DAAM2 gene . This doesn't mean that, in addition to training, proper nutrition isn't necessary, but it should be kept in mind. Ultimately, it's difficult to be an elite athlete if you don't have the necessary bone density.

3. Muscle development

While it is true that the muscle development You have to train to give your best; there's a predisposition due to genetic inheritance. Strength and recovery capacity make a difference, and that's undoubtedly related to muscle development. For this reason, genetic studies are extremely useful for understanding our potential. However, unlike other cases, muscle mass is largely gained and lost with continued effort.

Can genetic tests be done to check our predisposition?

Currently, genetics and sport are linked by their unequivocal relationship. And research in high-performance sports takes into account, and greatly, the genetic makeup of individuals, so that Yes, there are genetic tests to check our willingness to practice sports . And most importantly, these tests are affordable, which is why they may be of interest in certain cases for personal use.

We should note that, depending on the number of polymorphisms and elements analyzed, the tests are more or less expensive and faster to deliver. Here are some examples:

1. Polymorphism test for sports

He polymorphism test It is the most useful tool in the sense of knowing which genetic variations can influence our athletic performance. It is possible to do the test with a saliva sample and Illumina sequencing and, in this way, understand what factors can influence your performance. If you're involved in sports, it's important to have this information as soon as possible to make decisions. It's obvious that, with this information, you can structure a training and nutrition plan.

2. Sequencing for sport and nutrition

Know the polymorphisms It's good, but if this is combined with indications for the Nutrition , even better. This is where a sequencing test that takes both aspects into account is possible. However, a blood test may be ordered, as it involves a higher level of complexity.

3. Combined genetic test

Finally, genetic tests can treat sports issues but also of another kind: from reaction to medications, Health, talent, ancestry, and skin . All of this information, combined, can be very useful in deciding which paths to take. Illumina sequencing detects up to 700 polymorphisms in saliva, and can yield an interesting result.

Truths vs. myths in genetics and sports

Although genetic testing is very useful and there is an undeniable relationship between genetics and sports, it's worth dispelling some myths. Let's take a look:

• A unique one Isolated polymorphism will rarely have any influence in athletic performance. Unless we're talking about pathologies, several polymorphisms must be tested to determine their potential.
• Have a good one Genetic predisposition means nothing if it's not worked on . Strength without technique and discipline is rarely enough to consolidate an elite sports career. However, external factors, such as financial opportunities or environment, also play a role.
• The genetic inheritance of the parents It's not synonymous with success . We have numerous examples of children of elite athletes who have had mediocre careers, despite all the opportunities available to them. Athletic talent also counts, and a lot, in addition to the latest techniques.

Therefore, if these factors are assessed together, we conclude that genetics, while important, is not decisive. Therefore, it is advisable to use this information as a reference to enhance our best qualities.

In summary…

Genetics and sports have always been linked, even if it was previously unknown. Now, however, information is available, and you can use it to find out your predisposition and what aspects you can enhance and improve. Genotics offers a list of genetic tests for athletes, so you'll find the one you're looking for. Contact us if you have any questions!