Now that the human genome has been mapped, some people are wondering if this will lead to the creation of super athletes in the future. An interesting thought, but for now it's more useful to consider how the genes you already have influence your potential for sports performance and the degree of fitness you can attain.
Most people can make good progress with common fitness exercises, such as weight training, stretching and various aerobic activities. A mix of activities may be best for general fitness. You may do better, and enjoy yourself more, if you choose activities for which you're better suited, but it's more important to choose exercises you like to do. You're probably not going to achieve the cardiovascular fitness level of a Tour de France cyclist in any case.
Genetics is a significant factor in sports performance. Just about anyone can swim, run or play tennis for fun. But if you're looking for a sport you can excel in, start by considering your genetics.
The most obvious factor is height. Tall people have an advantage in volleyball, rowing and basketball. There are exceptions. Mugsy Bogues, at 5-3, has played several seasons in the NBA on the court with guys almost two feet taller than he is. There are several women professional basketball players who are 5-6 or less. So if you love basketball and have the other necessary attributes, it is possible you could excel even if you're not tall. You may have to play guard, though!
On the other hand, short people have the advantage in gymnastics and diving, because a smaller body can move through the air quicker when somersaults are involved. One sport that does not have exceptions is thoroughbred racing. Many a promising young jockey has outgrown his profession.
Weight training is a worthwhile pursuit for everyone, and if you want to compete in power lifting or weightlifting, you will be competing against others in your weight category. Within that, the individual of smaller stature and with shorter arms and legs has a slight advantage in that the weight doesn't have to be lifted so far.
Next you can look at your body type. Ectomorphs are naturally slim, mesomorphs are muscular, and endomorphs tend to have a more rounded physique. True, most anyone can take off some fat and gain muscle, but your best sports may be those that are compatible with your natural body type. High jumpers are tall and slim, but shot putters are tall and heavy.
Other factors include reaction time, eyesight, coordination and muscle fiber type (whether you're more suited to endurance or power sports). Examine your favorite sports and see what body type and other genetic attributes you think are most important.
How good can you get? Sports performance is generally about 40 percent genetics and 60 percent training. People like Tiger Woods in golf or the Williams sisters in tennis surely have tremendous natural ability, but if they hadn't put in the hard work they wouldn't be the household names they are now. The 40 percent genetics number also applies to general fitness. How much can you improve your aerobic capacity? How much can you build your muscles? You have genetic benefits and genetic constraints, but the right training can give you excellent results whatever your genetic makeup.
Genetics is a significant influence on how good a player you are, how fit you can get and how much you can develop your physique. But genetics is not destiny. Pick sports and exercise activities you enjoy, decide how hard you're willing to work and have fun with it.
No comments:
Post a Comment