DNA Test for your Aptitude to Sport

The following characteristics are analysed:

1) Power or Endurance?
This section evaluates your individual predisposition toward power or endurance-based activities. The genetic analysis focuses on the ACTN3 gene, which encodes alpha-actinin-3, a protein found only in type 2 (fast-twitch) skeletal muscle fibers.

Power refers to the maximum force you can exert over a short period. Individuals with a power-oriented profile have more fast-twitch fibers, which produce a high level of force quickly. These athletes typically show great strength, speed, and explosiveness but tire more easily. Their bodies rely heavily on anaerobic energy (glycolysis), which is fast but less efficient and leads to lactic acid buildup, causing muscle fatigue. Genetic markers associated with power sports are used to determine this predisposition.

Endurance refers to low-intensity activity performed over extended periods. People with an endurance-oriented profile tend to have more slow-twitch (red) muscle fibers, which contain more myoglobin to store oxygen and maintain energy levels longer. Endurance athletes often possess “marathon genes,” contributing to a higher oxygen supply and resistance to fatigue. These markers are linked to sports like long-distance running, swimming, rowing, and cycling.

Power sports include:
Short-distance running (100 meters), throws (discus, shot put, hammer, javelin), jumps (high, long, triple, pole), and weightlifting.

Endurance sports include:
Athletic events from 800 meters to marathon, walking, swimming, speed skating, rowing, canoeing, road cycling, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing.

2) Detoxifying Capacity (Antioxidant Capacity)
This test assesses your athletic recovery based on your body’s antioxidant ability. The SOD2 gene, found in mitochondria, plays a role in neutralizing free radicals that contribute to cellular aging. An unfavorable variant is linked to a higher risk of delayed onset muscle soreness following physical activity.

3) Recovery Efficiency (Anti-inflammatory Capacity)
This part of the test evaluates how efficiently your body recovers by regulating inflammation. It analyzes the IL-6 gene, which produces a protein released during exercise that helps control inflammation. An unfavorable variant can result in reduced control over inflammation and slower recovery.

4) Joint Resistance
This test examines COL1A1, the gene responsible for producing type 1 collagen, the main component of joints. A reduction in this collagen can result in increased vulnerability to joint injuries.

While exercise brings numerous health benefits, improper training or genetic predispositions can increase the risk of injury. Some individuals are genetically more likely to suffer from muscle, tendon, or joint injuries. Identifying these risks allows for tailored training plans. Genetic variants can also impact recovery times, making it possible to optimize physical performance and injury prevention for each athlete.

5) Caffeine Metabolism Efficiency
This test assesses how quickly your body metabolizes caffeine by analyzing the CYP1A2 gene. This gene codes for the cytochrome P450 protein, the liver enzyme primarily responsible for caffeine breakdown. An unfavorable variant can increase sensitivity to caffeine and the risk of side effects such as nausea, rapid heartbeat, insomnia, and hypertension.