Polygenic Insights

The understanding of human performance has shifted dramatically with the realization that traits like VO2 max are influenced by thousands of genes rather than a single one. This polygenic approach emphasizes the importance of multiple genetic factors working together, leading to the development of polygenic risk scores that assess how these genes contribute to individual performance. The era of searching for a single gene responsible for complex traits is over, paving the way for a more nuanced understanding of genetics in athletic performance.