Description
This test considers the individual predisposition to power or resistance type activities. The genetic analysis examines the ACTN3 gene which codes for alpha-actinin-3, a protein found exclusively in type 2 (fast) fibres of skeletal muscle.
It is therefore a very useful test to understand which sport is recommended to practice based on your genes.
POWER
Muscle strength (power) measures the maximum amount of force that can be exerted for a limited period of time. Fast-twitch fibres generate a relatively high amount of force in a short period of time. Athletes with this predisposition are characterised by great strength, power and speed, but they tire more quickly. They have a lower capacity to obtain aerobic energy, lower oxygen levels and higher glycogen levels, so at first they receive energy from glycolysis (anaerobic respiration) for muscle contraction. This process is very fast, but it is also quite inefficient for producing energy; furthermore, it produces lactic acid which promotes muscle fatigue. This explains why fast-twitch fibres tire faster. To evaluate the power predisposition profile, genetic markers associated with power sports are used.
ENDURANCE
Endurance training is defined as low-intensity activity performed over a long period of time. Muscular endurance measures the ability to repeat an activity for a long time without feeling tired. If your muscular structure favours endurance, you have the potential to perform well in exercises that take advantage of this ability. The intrinsic ability to perform resistance exercises is influenced by several factors.
First, endurance depends on the percentage of slow-twitch fibres in skeletal muscle. They are also known as red fibres because they contain more myoglobin, a protein that stores oxygen, and they get their own energy source, so they can maintain their strength longer.
Secondly, it has been observed that the best athletes usually have so-called “marathon genes”. Studies have identified genetic variants associated with a high percentage of these fibres and a high oxygen supply to muscle tissue.
Examples of power sports:
(discus, shot put, hammer, javelin), jumps (high, long, triple, pole), short distance running (100 meters), weightlifting.
Examples of endurance sports:
The running specialties of athletics from 800 meters to the marathon, walking, swimming, ice and roller speed skating, rowing, canoeing, road and off-road cycling, cross-country skiing.
