Do you know your true self? Are you capable of extraordinary athletic feats?
No? Maybe? Then quick, get a tissue sample from the side of your mouth and mail it to MyGene’s Sports Gene Test.
Understanding the Sports Gene Test
What the Australian lab does is run the Sports Gene Test, which analyzes 18 gene variants for exercise and fitness information. What for? To map out your overall prowess as an athlete or would-be athlete. MyGene wants to use its research for the benefit of the sporting community so that serious sportsmen will know what they’re good at and where they come short.
The test examines various genetic markers that are associated with physical performance, endurance, strength, and recovery. For instance, certain gene variants can indicate a predisposition for fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are beneficial for sprinters and weightlifters. Conversely, other variants might suggest a natural inclination towards endurance sports like marathon running or cycling.
Ethical Considerations and Privacy
But due to the controversy surrounding gene testing, the service is only open to people 18 years old and above. So please don’t send your kid’s DNA sample expecting news that he/she is a genius or a superb physical specimen. (Isn’t this oddly reminiscent of that movie Gattaca?) Even the head honcho scientist at MyGene sets the same boundaries: “We don’t feel 100 per cent comfortable with the potential for a child to be discriminated against based on their genotype.”
To keep their research neutral and protect the customer’s dignity, MyGene makes sure it works with anonymous submissions. Don’t send them your name and biographical info; all they need is an address to mail back their findings. This ensures that the results are used solely for personal insight and not for any discriminatory purposes.
Moreover, the ethical implications of genetic testing are vast. Critics argue that knowing one’s genetic predispositions could lead to a deterministic view of abilities, potentially discouraging individuals from pursuing certain sports or activities. On the other hand, proponents believe that such knowledge can be empowering, allowing individuals to tailor their training and nutrition to maximize their potential.
In addition to athletic performance, genetic testing can also provide insights into injury risks. For example, some gene variants are linked to a higher likelihood of tendon injuries or stress fractures. By being aware of these risks, athletes can take preventive measures, such as specific strength training exercises or modified training regimens, to mitigate potential injuries.
It’s also worth noting that while genetic testing can provide valuable insights, it is not the sole determinant of athletic success. Environmental factors, such as training, diet, and mental resilience, play a crucial role in shaping an athlete’s performance. Therefore, the results from MyGene’s Sports Gene Test should be viewed as one piece of the puzzle rather than a definitive answer.
Via Dvice
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