Optimize your muscle growth
What does my DNA have to do with my training performance?
Adipose tissue and obesity-associated gene
Influencing fat metabolism
The FTO gene influences fat metabolism and determines whether fat is stored or burned. Mutation A23525A in the FTO gene leads to a tendency towards strength sports , as this mutation promotes the development of slower-twitch, more fatigue-resistant type 2 muscle fibers. Carriers of this mutation are more likely to store fat and are often active in sports such as martial arts and heavyweight. The mutations T23525T and A23525T, on the other hand, promote the development of type 1 muscle fibers that work efficiently under oxygen conditions, which increases endurance performance. However, several mutations in the FTO gene may also be linked to diabetes and obesity, in which case exercise alone is not sufficient for weight loss.
Angiotensin converting enzyme
Better muscle efficiency
The ACE gene plays an important role in athletic performance. A special gene change, the insertion, can lead to higher VO2 max potential , better muscle efficiency and a larger volume of the left ventricle, which is particularly advantageous in endurance sports . This mutation is often found in elite athletes. It could be related to lower levels of angiotensin II, which increases blood pressure, and higher levels of bradykinin, which lowers blood pressure. However, athletes without this genetic modification can also perform well because they can achieve faster muscle cross-sectional growth and higher maximum strength.
Angiotensinogen
Improved response to strength training
The AGT gene, responsible for the production of the glycoprotein angiotensinogen in the liver, influences blood pressure. A specific gene mutation (M235T) in the AGT gene leads to up to 30% higher AGT concentration in the blood, which increases blood pressure and organ blood flow. This genetic change improves the response to resistance training and can result in lower body fat , making muscles more prominent. Many high-performance athletes in strength sports have this mutation. The mutation doesn't seem to have any effect on endurance. The effect could also arise from a faster conversion of type 1 to type 2 muscle fibers.
Beta-3 adregenic receptor
Improved endurance performance
The ADRB3 gene is part of the sympathetic nervous system and influences the body's fat burning and thermoregulation. Two mutations in the ADRB3 gene (T190C, C190C) reduce the body's ability to use fat as an energy source , affecting endurance performance and long-term performance. For these mutation carriers , strength training is more effective than endurance training , and exercise alone is not sufficient for weight loss. People without these mutations can achieve a higher VO2max rate, although this advantage has so far only been proven in men.