Genetic ratios of muscle fiber types determine if you are a natural sprinter

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Genetic ratios of muscle fiber types determine if you are a natural sprinter

An individual's capacity for explosive speed or long-distance endurance is largely dictated by the genetically determined ratio of fast-twitch to slow-twitch muscle fibers.

Skeletal muscles are composed of Type I slow-twitch fibers for endurance and Type II fast-twitch fibers for power. Elite sprinters typically possess a genetic makeup featuring 70% Type II fibers, which utilize glycolysis to provide rapid bursts of energy. Conversely, world-class marathoners often have up to 80% Type I fibers, which are packed with mitochondria to oxidize fat efficiently.

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