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Genes and olympic performance: a co-twin study.

V Klissouras1, B Casini, V Di Salvo

  • 1Rome University Institute of Motor Sciences and Department of Public Health, University of Rome-Tor Vergata, Italy. vklissou@cc.uoa.gr

International Journal of Sports Medicine
|June 21, 2001
PubMed
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Genetic factors and training are crucial for athletic excellence, but personality traits significantly influence success. This study compared identical twins, revealing minimal physiological differences but notable variations in personality. These differences may explain disparities in their Olympic performance.

Area of Science:

  • Sports Science
  • Genetics
  • Psychology

Background:

  • Identical twins, both Olympic athletes in 20 km race walking, underwent extensive training for 19 years.
  • A gold medalist and his less successful twin were studied to understand factors contributing to athletic excellence.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relative importance of genetic factors versus personality traits in modulating athletic excellence.
  • To identify potential bio-behavioral differences between elite athletes with similar genetic and training backgrounds.

Main Methods:

  • Bio-behavioral profiles of 40-year-old identical twins were assessed 7 years after ceasing training.
  • Physiological attributes (BMI, cardiac mass index, squat jump, VO2 max) and personality traits (anger reaction, anger expression) were measured.

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Main Results:

  • Physiological attributes showed negligible differences between the twins.
  • Significant divergences were observed in personality traits, specifically in reaction to anger and anger expression.
  • The Olympic gold medalist exhibited a high reaction to anger (97th percentile) and low anger expression (2nd percentile).

Conclusions:

  • While genetic makeup and rigorous training are foundational for elite athletic performance, personality traits appear to be a significant differentiating factor.
  • Specific personality profiles, such as high anger reaction and low anger expression, may be linked to superior athletic achievement.