Tuesday, November 10, 2009

The Genetic Code



In a recent ESPN the Magazine article- genetic coding was explored relative to athletic performance.  Companies are emerging- such as Athleticode that are developing assessments to assist in  identification an athletes individual DNA- and the affect the genetic code has on the potential for injury- propensity for strength- and even projected volumes of VO2 Max.


So what does this mean for the Strength and Conditioning Coach?


It's my belief- that the more information we have to act upon- the better.  Our objectivity improves with every measurable mark we can access for our athletes.  Would having knowledge that your athlete is not a susceptible to an Achilles injury or ACL stress alter the risk quotient applied to exercise?  
Maybe.
You see for every exercise there is a risk- benefit continuum.
For every exercise there is also a "relative degree" of transference to the field of play.  

More information is always better- the future of genetic information for your individual athletes is not too far away.  My advice to you- is embrace this- take in as much measurable and objective information that you can to make truly informed decisions about conditioning your athletes.




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