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Me, lazy? Blame it on the genes
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Inactivity might be linked to genetic disposition
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Photo : M. Vedhan
It’s genetic Genes play a role in determining physical activity
Are your genes making you lazy? Physical activity has many determinants: time, health, equipment, motivation, and environment are just a few. It may be time to add genes to this list.
Looking around, we see that sporting excellence runs in some families, and couch potato lifestyles in others. Just as diseases, intelligence and body build have a genetic component; it may be that inactivity too has a genetic basis. While genetic studies are plenty in other aspects of exercise, there is precious little activity in the field of inactivity!
The best arguments for a biological basis for inactivity are as follows: 1. There are twins and families with high rates of sedentary behaviour, and there are families who are noticeably active. 2. From a behavioural perspective, the heritability coefficients of physical activity and inactivity are statistically significant. 3. One human study has identified genes on different chromosomes that result in variations in activity levels. Some of the genes involved are dopamine receptor D2 (DRD2), leptin receptor (LEPR), angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), and melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R). 4. Current models that exclude genetic factors do not fully account for the variations in activity levels between people.
Non-genetic factors
While genes may play some role in determining physical activity, non-genetic factors are more important. Even in those with a plausible genetic basis for a sedentary life, genes do not provide an excuse for being inactive. For example, first degree relatives of patients with type-2 diabetes have a genetic predisposition for the disease, and this knowledge confers the power to make early changes in lifestyle to prevent type 2 dm.
A genetic predisposition is not a stamp of inevitability. Your genes have but a flimsy hold on your exercise behaviour. If you are lazy by nature and come from a sedentary family, it is better to seek exercise creatively, in ways that hold your interest. Dance, for example, is ideal for those who hate getting up for exercise.
Working out as part of a group is more motivating than exercising alone. If nothing works, see a psychologist (walk there, preferably). Do whatever it takes to get at least 30 minutes of exercise everyday.
RAJIV. M
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