We inherit a lot of things from our families via our genes, both good and bad. Hair color, medical conditions, that one dimple you and everyone in your family has—the list goes on and on. But could your predisposition for athleticism (or lack thereof) be coded into your cells? The mitochondrial respiratory oxidative phosphorylation system (OXPHOS) is a vital metabolic process for endurance exercise and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) codifies 13 of the 83 polypeptides implied in the respiratory chain. “As such, there is a strong rationale for identifying an association between mtDNA variants and ‘aerobic’ (endurance) exercise phenotypes…Several studies in nonathletic people have demonstrated an association between certain mtDNA lineages and aerobic performance, characterized by maximal oxygen uptake. Whether mtDNA haplogroups are also associated with the status of being an elite endurance athlete is more controversial, with differences between studies arising from the different ethnic backgrounds of the athletic cohorts.”

If your head is spinning from all the deep science talk, never fear—we were right there with you at first. Essentially, this particular study examines the role that mitochondria can play in regard to athletic performance, which gives new implications to “the mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell.” While several studies have thus far shown support for a link between certain mtDNA lineages and aerobic performances, “more research is needed to determine to what extent the mitochondrion-related phenotypes of elite endurance athletes are genetically determined.”[1] That being said, this particular study also references other possible variants such as other genetic components, rare alleles, and environmental factors.

We here at Bod•ē Pro are fascinated with the emerging science surrounding mitochondria, as evidenced by our Bod•ē TEN! We have created a formula that works to help your body create new mitochondria and operate at full capacity while producing energized and more youthful cells, providing a critical foundation to help you age smarter.* Even if after further research it turns out that elite athletes are, in fact, genetically determined by mtDNA, you can still be the best athlete you can be by improving your own mitochondrial health! Support your body from a cellular level and make every day a perfect TEN.

[1] Eynon, Nir, et al. “The Champions' Mitochondria: Is It Genetically Determined? A Review on Mitochondrial DNA and Elite Athletic Performance.” Physiological Genomics, 1 July 2011, journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/physiolgenomics.00029.2011.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.