81: How Much Do Genetics Impact Your Running Performance?

Have you ever wondered how much your genetics influence your running? Are your paces or performances a matter of being a gifted athlete, or can you train beyond your genetic disposition? We explore the science of genetics on running performance in this episode. Additionally, we answer a listener’s question about using swimming as cross-training.

Discussion points include:

• A very quick and simple overview of genetics and epigentics
• The impact of genetics on trainability
• Is elite athleticism inherited?
• Do genetics, training, or both influence VO2max?
• Genetics, muscle fiber typology, and performance
• How much do your genetics impact your injury risk?
• Do your genetics impact your body size?
• How genetics change your caffeine response
• Why we don’t recommend genetic testing for runners
• The future of genetic doping

This episode is sponsored by Skratch Labs! Skratch makes some of our favorite hydration mixes, sports chews, and more. Use code AMANDARUN20 for 20% off your order at https://www.skratchlabs.com/AMANDARUN20

References:

Ehrman, J, Kerrigan, D, & Keteyian, S. (2018). Advanced Exercise Physiology: Essential Concepts and Applications. Human Kinetics.

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