Considerable differences exists in the individual response in cardiovascular, muscular, and metabolic adaptations following exercise training. Whilst the mechanisms determining inter-individual variability are unknown, it is possible that an individual’s genetic make-up dictates their responsiveness to specific training interventions.
The use of UK Biobank study data will allow the identification of gene variants not previously identified, that are significantly associated with VO2max, handgrip strength, fat mass, and fat free mass.
The findings from this study will facilitate the creation of a human athletic performance gene map in an unbiased manner that will be used to describe the cumulative effect of multiple gene variants on athletic performance using novel methods in creating genetic profiles. Results of this study can be used to further understand how genetic variation can affect long-term adaptations and could potentially be used to guide training decisions based on individual genetic information.
