Thursday 4 August 2022 04:52 PM Could YOU compete at the Commonwealth Games? Scientist reveals the ideal ... trends now
Were you born to be an elite athlete that could take home the gold at the Commonwealth Games?
While training the muscles and increasing stamina are both essential, as well as limitless determination, other physical traits put some sportspeople at an advantage.
Studies have suggested that the probability of becoming an elite athlete is influenced by genetics by over 70 per cent, depending on the sport.
With the Commonwealth Games heating up in Birmingham, Dr Adam Hawkey from Solent University has revealed exactly how body type may play a part in who gets a podium finish.
Speaking exclusively to the MailOnline, he said: 'According to some research, innate factors crucial to sporting performance - such as power, strength, aerobic capacity, flexibility and coordination - are predominantly determined by our genetic make-up.'
Dr Hawkey, an Associate Professor of Sports Science and Human Performance, suggested that swimmers benefit from a long body and short legs, so their centre of mass is further up their body and helps to reduce drag.
Many weightlifters may have an armspan shorter than their height,
