DNA shows being a top athlete is in the genes

WANT to know what Bryan Habana is made of ? Well, it’s now public knowledge. The professional rugby player has become one of the first athletes in the world to share his DNA infor mation publicly, giving the world a look at his genetic power, endurance and recovery disposition.

The release of Habana’s personal genetic information is part of a global challenge to rugby players across the world to have their DNA tested and analysed.

Habana teamed up with global biotechnology company DNAFit to create the largest rugby genetic database in the sporting world.

“The data will help the sporting world to break into new frontiers of training, preparation and injury avoidance, making players and teams more successful and opening a new realm of sports medicine,” Habana said.

Setting the ambitious target of 1 000 rugby samples genotyped for research and analysis by the end of 2018, Habana said he had released his personal genetic code and associated information “to encourage other players from around the world to do their DNA test and help build this very important database”.

Habana did a simple mouth swab test to collect his DNA sample.

The sample looks at 45 genes known to determine power, endurance and recovery.

Unsurprisingly, as one of the best wings in South African rugby history, Habana’s DNA revealed he is genetically pre-disposed to be a very wellrounded athlete.

“The power of personal genetics helps individuals reach their fitness and nutritional goals on the most personal level possible,” said DNAFit founder Avi Lasarow.

Analysing his results and looking back at his career, Habana believes the information could have made a huge difference to his performance.

“As a legacy, I want other players and athletes to have the opportunity of understanding the make-up of their DNA and how best to train as a result.

“Looking at these results and what they say about my genetic make-up means that I probably could have pushed myself further in certain areas and who knows the difference this could have made?”

Already a decorated rugby superstar, World Cup winner and international icon, Habana understands the difference between winning and losing.

“It’s sometimes that one percent, the smallest of margins that can be the difference between winning and losing.

“This information and data gives you that edge,” Habana said.

DNAFit is already being used by a number of professional sportsmen including British Olympic and World long jump champion Greg Rutherford and several English Premier League football clubs.

South African footballer Kagisho Dikgacoi is also expected to share his genetic information soon.