DNA is the one of the most popular excuses used by those who can’t <strong>get in shape</strong> because everyone knows genes affect the body’s shape. If our parents have large frames, we will most likely have large frame, if our parents are obese, we have the tendency to be obese, if our parents are naturally lean, we will most likely stay lean. Muscle building is no different. How fast we build muscles and the amount of muscle we build in your bodies is influenced by several factors.
Muscle Fiber Ratio
There are two kinds of fibers that can be found in our muscles that affect how you should get in shape: fast-twitch and slow-twitch fibers. Both of these fibers are able to increase in size (hypertrophy) thereby creating muscle growth. However, fast-twitch fibers are able to grow bigger and faster than slow-twitch fibers. Fiber distribution in muscles differs from person to person because of DNA. Some people have a higher amount of fast-twitch fibers in their muscle groups enabling them to build bigger muscles at a faster rate.
Body Type
Our genetics determine the type of body we have and our body type determines our body composition and the results of our fitness program. Anyone who is trying to get in shape must be aware that there are three kinds of body type: mesomorph, endomorph, and ectomorphs. The American Council on Exercise state that mesomorphs have a naturally muscular physique and can gain muscles quickly. Ectomorphs, who have a small, thin structure, gain fewer muscles than the other body types. Endomorphs, who have a soft, round shape with a larger distribution of fat than the other two, need to lose fat first before their muscles become visible and defined.
Anabolic Hormones
The hormones that influence and regulate the body’s muscle growth when we are trying to get in shape are called anabolic hormones. These hormones include testosterone, insulin, IGF (insulin-like growth factors), and growth hormone. The hormone levels are different in each individual and predetermined by our genes. For example, women have lower levels of these hormones than men. Typically, an average man would have around 10 to 20 times more testosterone than an average woman. Testosterone helps the growth of muscle mass. Even with resistance training or other efforts to get in shape, which helps increase the circulation of anabolic hormones, women would still have lesser anabolic hormones. The levels of these hormones would largely affect your ability to grow muscles. While the natural levels of our anabolic hormones are dictated by your genes, resistance training done weekly can increase them.
Weightlifting for Muscle Growth
Although our genetic composition greatly influences our ability to build muscles when we get in shape, do not feel discouraged from wanting to grow your muscles. With proper resistance training, you can get hypertrophy despite what your genes tell you with a proper high intensity workout routine.
Genes influence muscle growth but it does not mean we can’t control it. You can, in fact, use it to your advantage. For example, it is easier for mesomorphs and endomorphs to bulk up. So stop using your DNA as an excuse. If you are not achieving the results you are gunning for, you are doing it wrong.
Tags: get in shape
Leave A Reply (2 comments So Far)
Karthik Kalaimani
91 days ago
Great article, Sir. Most people use genetics as an excuse to not having the best physique that one could have. Persistent hard exercise done safely emphasizing form and providing room for adequate recovery while adhering to sensible dietary habits will give results.
Karthik Kalaimani
91 days ago
Is that a picture of the "Blonde Bomber"?