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The future: genes, physical activity and health
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA. boothf@missouri.edu
Acta Physiologica (Oxford, England)
|March 30, 2010
Summary
Future gene and physical activity research faces challenges. This review suggests refining terms like 'control' and 'non-responders' and highlights the need to understand the molecular basis of physical activity for chronic disease prevention.
Area of Science:
- Exercise science
- Genetics
- Preventative medicine
Background:
- The Lindhard presentation focused on the future of genes, physical activity, and health.
- Rapid technological advancements limit long-term future projections in this field.
- The review summarizes near-future opportunities and challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review future opportunities and challenges in genes, physical activity, and health.
- To address concerns regarding terminology in exercise research.
- To discuss the future of exercise prescription and preventative physical activity medicine.
Main Methods:
- Review of a presentation on future gene-environment interactions in physical activity.
- Critical analysis of current terminology in exercise research.
- Discussion of future directions in personalized and preventative exercise medicine.
Main Results:
- Proposed differentiation of 'control' group terminology in exercise research.
- Suggested replacing 'non-responders' with 'low sensitivity' to exercise adaptations.
- Identified limitations in achieving truly individualized exercise prescription.
- Highlighted physical activity as a therapy for chronic disease prevention.
Conclusions:
- Refining terminology in exercise research is crucial for accurate interpretation.
- Individualized exercise medicine faces significant challenges.
- Understanding the molecular basis of physical activity's role in health is essential for future preventative strategies.
- Physical activity is a key factor in preventing chronic diseases.
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