A groundbreaking study conducted by experts from Anglia Ruskin University has uncovered the incredible influence of our genes on our exercise performance. Published in the journal PLOS ONE, the study reveals that up to 72% of the difference in performance outcomes following specific exercises can be attributed to genetic variations.
The researchers analyzed data from 3,012 adults between the ages of 18 and 55 who had not previously engaged in exercise training. They aimed to understand how genes affect three crucial types of physical exercise: muscle strength, cardiovascular fitness, and anaerobic power.
Despite all participants undergoing the same exercise training, individual improvements varied significantly. The researchers discovered that genetic differences accounted for 72% of the variation in outcomes for those aiming to improve muscle strength. Genetic variations were responsible for 44% of the differences seen in cardiovascular fitness exercises, as measured by V02max testing. Additionally, 10% of the differences in outcomes for exercises targeting anaerobic power were influenced by genes.
The study identified 13 specific genes and their associated alleles that play a role in how the body responds to these different exercises. The researchers propose that gene testing could allow for personalized exercise programs tailored to individual genetic profiles. This approach could optimize the effectiveness of exercise regimes and benefit a wide range of individuals, from hospital patients undergoing rehabilitation to elite athletes seeking marginal performance improvements.
Lead author Henry Chung explains, “Because everyone’s genetic makeup is different, our bodies respond slightly differently to the same exercises. Therefore, it should be possible to improve the effectiveness of an exercise regime by identifying someone’s genotype and then tailoring a specific training program just for them.
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