Why Your Training Should Be Tailored to Your Genetics

Hello Ziddis! Did you know that your genetics can impact your fitness? It is said that everyone’s fitness journey is different. This is because everyone’s genetic makeup is also very different. This is why even when two people follow the same routine they yield vastly different results. The simple answer to this lies in our genetic map, our DNA. From muscle fibre types to endurance levels, body structure to metabolic reactions, even rest and recovery, all depend on your genes.

Let us understand how we can make the most of this by understanding our body and our genetics and yield better results

Does DNA Affect Workout Results?

Yes, our DNA affects our workout results. Not just that, our DNA also affects how we exercise and how much can we push. Basically, DNA influences everything from how your body builds muscle to how quickly you can recover after your workout session. This means that if you and your friend do the same workout, you both will still have very different effects on your body- different levels of muscle gain, fat loss and even stamina improvement.

Some genes are linked to higher endurance while others impact how your body can metabolize fats or carbs. Even your brain’s response to physical exertion can be somewhat and sometimes influenced by genetics.

How Genetics Affect Strength Training

One of the clearest examples of genetic influence lies in the distribution of muscle fibre types. Fast twitch fibres are better suited for power and strength while slow twitch fibres support endurance activities. If you are naturally dominant in fast twitching fibres then you may get an advantage in your strength training workouts like lifting, squats or even sprints. On the other hand, if slow-twitch fibres are your stronger suit, you would do well with cardio exercises like long-distance running, cycling and swimming.

Your genes can also affect your hormonal response to resistance training. Some people have naturally higher levels of testosterone and that gives them an edge in strength training and muscle-building exercises.

Genetics and Exercise Performance

Genetics and exercise performance go hand in hand. Genetics not only influence how we train but also how the training can benefit us. Factors like lung capacity, heart size, metabolic efficiency and how much you sweat are important for your exercise performance and these factors are dependent on your genetics. Endurance athletes have specific gene variants that help their bodies process oxygen more efficiently. Recovery time is also genetically influenced. If your body clears lactic acid quickly or has strong anti-inflammatory responses, you will be able to bounce back from an intense workout much faster.

Genetic Influence on Muscle Growth

The formula of muscle growth is not the same for everyone. This is because some people may see muscle gains within weeks while others need months of consistent efforts to achieve the same. This is because of how everyone’s body synthesizes protein differently. This does not mean progress and muscle growth are impossible for anyone but they might need to put in more effort to get muscle growth in comparison to their friend with a more compatible genetic influence on muscle growth.

Takeaway

You can get so much information from your genetics like they are the blueprint to your body. You can get insights, especially about your fitness. From what food to have to how your body reacts to specific exercises and what to avoid as well. Make sure you are on board with this information if you want to yield better results. So get an idea about your genetic make up and buckle up in your comfy joggers, fill up your shaker bottle with the right protein and let’s hit the gym. So next time you hit the gym, remember: your body isn’t generic—your workout shouldn’t be either.

Read Also: Does Heat Affect Muscle Recovery? What You Need to Know