Lucky in love

Are some people more genetically predisposed to enjoy running than others?

It’s long been known that genes play a role in sporting prowess, but some research has suggested our genetic make-up may play a role not just in our capacity for exercise, but also our inclination.

A 2019 study published in Behavioural Brain Research identified four genetic variations that influenced the reinforcing value of exercise (how much reward someone derives from exercise, which reinforces further participation) and tolerance of exercise intensity, leading researchers to conclude that there is a genetic variation.

Genes alone are unlikely to stop anyone falling for running, though. ‘Some of us may have inherited tendencies to be slightly less inclined to exercise,’ says Lieberman. ‘But no common genes have been identified that explain more than a small percentage of the variation in activity.’

However, it is well worth remembering that your DNA has made you an ‘experiment of one’, and what works best for you may be different from what works for others. ‘It is clear that people have individual differences in what type of movement draws out the most powerful reward and reinforcement,’ says McGonigal. ‘It might be being out in nature, it might be moving with others, it might be HIIT training or moving to music.’