Genetic Testing for Sports Performance | Perform with Dr. Andy Galpin

Testing Insights

Andy Galpin provides a comprehensive overview of genetic testing for sports performance, emphasizing its growing accessibility and relevance. He explains that genetic testing, once prohibitively expensive, is now available through numerous companies at a fraction of the cost, making it accessible to a broader audience 1. This democratization of genetic testing has led to increased interest among athletes, with studies suggesting that up to 10% have already undergone some form of genetic testing 1.

Genetic testing used to be incredibly expensive and therefore basically inaccessible for most people, and that's no longer the case. The first human genome sequence cost around $3 billion for one person. And now there are thousands of different companies that offer these testing for anywhere between a couple of up to a thousand.

--- Andy Galpin

Galpin also highlights the importance of interpreting genetic test results carefully, as they can significantly impact an individual's approach to nutrition and exercise 2.

   

Testing Variability

Galpin delves into the variability inherent in genetic testing and its implications for athletes. He explains that even minor genetic variations can have significant effects on performance, using the example of a single base pair mutation that drastically altered an individual's EPO receptor 3. This variability underscores the complexity of genetic testing and the need for a nuanced understanding of its results.

The average person has about 20 million base pair variations that are different from what's called the reference genome.

--- Andy Galpin

He emphasizes that while genetic variations are common, their impact can vary widely, making it essential to consider the broader context when interpreting test results 4.

   

Testing Limitations

Galpin addresses the limitations and ethical considerations of genetic testing in sports. He cautions against using genetic testing for talent identification, particularly in children, due to the potential negative impact on their self-perception and motivation 5. He stresses the importance of weighing the risks and benefits before recommending genetic testing, especially for young athletes.

There are enough data suggesting that there are negative and harmful effects in some people when they get these reports back.

--- Andy Galpin

Galpin also notes that while genetic testing can provide valuable insights, it should not be the sole basis for making decisions about training and nutrition 6.