Olympic athletes have the right genes for their sport
CBC News | Posted: February 10, 2014 8:36 PM | Last Updated: February 10, 2014
Genetics mean everyone is suited for different training, different sports, author says
What genes help determine your chances of reaching the podium? Is it really true that you can become an expert at anything in 10,000 hours? Are genes the reason some countries dominate certain sports? Is it a good idea to screen children for their athletic potential using genetic testing?
Certain genetic traits do help give some people an advantage in certain sports, says American journalist David Epstein, author of The Sports Gene: Inside the Science of Extraordinary Athletic Performance.
In particular, "no two people respond exactly the same way to training," he said in interview with Bob McDonald, host of CBC Radio's Quirks & Quarks. But that also highlights the key role that the environment plays.
In his interview, Epstein discusses the range of factors that help someone become an elite athlete and the scientific studies that have helped uncover the role of specific genes.
He also offers advice to young athletes who one day hope to own the podium.