The Speed Gene

No one is going to have the genes to sprint as fast as the Flash, but you can have some genetic abilities that will put you ahead of the pack. One of these is an ACTN3 gene mutation. People with a specific mutation that produces a protein that changes how muscles fire and contract have significantly greater athletic ability. The term "speed gene" is a bit misleading because it has far-reaching consequences. Sprinters can sprint faster, but power lifters can lift more weight. Athletes of all levels are more injury resistant and recover faster after exercise.

For many years, academics have been looking into ways to utilize this trait. Over a decade ago, a firm advertised that it would conduct tests on children to determine whether or not they had the next Usain Bolt in their midst. There is definitely more to athletic ability than a few odd genes, but there is compelling evidence that the appropriate expression of these genes can contribute to being a better athlete overall.