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People with 'good' genes are able to bulk up their muscles and get fit quicker, a study has found — perhaps explaining why, for some, a six pack remains elusive.
Researchers from the Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge reviewed 24 past studies to determine how genetics affects the results of exercise training.
For one set of exercises designed to improve muscle strength, the team found that genetic difference accounted for 72 per cent of the variation in fitness outcomes.
And the researchers concluded that 13 genes are responsible for how the body reacts to cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and anaerobic power exercises.
Based on their findings, the team have suggested that genetic testing could be used to better tailor exercises to each individual to achieve the best results.
People with 'good' genes are able to bulk up their muscles and get fit quicker, a study has found — perhaps explaining why, for some, a six pack remains elusive
'We know that exercise is good for us, but we all improve at different rates, even when following identical training regimes. This means there are other factors at play,' said paper author and sport scientist Henry Chung of Anglia Ruskin University.
In their study, Mr Chung and colleagues reviewed 24 previous studies, analysing the results of experiments on a total of 3,012 adults aged between 15–55 to assess how genetics can affect the impact of three important areas of physical exercise.
Specifically, these were anaerobic power, cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength — representing, the team
