Flexibility Series #3: Genetics and Flexibility

Are they related? Well, absolutely and not completely is my definitive answer.

Gene expression is responsible for collagen formation which as we’ve covered previously is a key component for all of our connective tissue. The formation and quality of our connective tissue can determine our flexibility.  In this regard genetics are responsible for 64-72% of our flexibility.  

Before you claim this is exactly why you have such limited range of motion (ROM) understand that the leftover 28-36% of lifestyle is a yawning gap for improvement.  Though most believe ROM diminishes because of age it is not known how much of this is due to a natural result of the aging process or due to sedentary lifestyle aka lack of movement of a broad variety.  In the first of this series we covered the benefits of strength training.  Muscle strength developed in full ROM supports greater mobility.  As live beings with musculoskeletons and intact nervous systems, we are made for movement.  So if we spend an estimated two-thirds of our day relatively stationary due to sleep (necessary) and our desk job (result of modern life, and this includes just sitting or just standing) then how we use the 28-36% of the rest of our day matters greatly.

There are multiple genes known to be related to endurance and athletic ability. One genotype of the gene responsible for type V collagen production causes a greater degree of inflexibility and lends itself to more efficient running ability.  As discussed, studies have shown stretching does not protect against injury but another genotype of this same gene increases the likelihood of one being “looser”.  The “looser” genotype has shown to protect against Achilles tendinopathy and in females, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures.  Unless one has the gene mutation responsible for roughly 50% of those diagnosed with classic Ehlers Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder, we all must work on our mobility at some point in our lives if we’re not already, on a regular basis.  

From our flexibility series, strength training and dynamic stretching are wonderful options but above all else adopt practices that are practical and maintainable.  You’re with your body everyday.  You can do something everyday.  Get up and take your body through ROM as a brain break for a minute a couple of times a day.  Think back to grade school and moving like a tree, reach for the stars, see how high you can kick up your knees and tap them with your hands, get creative.  Move and enjoy the body you have.  Today’s mantra: to not lose it, Move It!

Next week, I’ve asked Aubrie, aka My Brain, the one and only, the one that holds MMNYC together, to share her new addiction with you all. Thanks for reading and be well!