Bryan Habana To Share Dna Information
Bryan Habana will release his DNA information, sharing insight into his genetic make-up, endurance and recovery ability using DNAFit.
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 to improve training and sporting performance.
The Springbok has been tested by British life sciences company DNAFit, shortlisted at the BT Sport Industry Awards 2016, to help create the largest rugby genetic database in the sporting world.
Setting the 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 from DNAFit to collect a DNA sample, which looked at 45 genes known to determine power, endurance and recovery. Supported by independent research, the test used the DNAFit Peak Performance Algorithm, based on validated genetic variant scoring methods, to determine Habana’s personal genetic score for power/endurance response and other important information to assist training. Habana’s DNA revealed he is genetically pre-disposed to be a very well-rounded athlete.
Realising the difference that this could have made in his own career, Habana has launched an initiative aimed at helping rugby players from around the world become better, faster, healthier and stronger players.
Habana, said: “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.”
Avi Lasarow, DNAFit founder added: “Bryan has a mixed power endurance ratio, with a score of 43:57, meaning he has a nicely balanced genetic adaptation to both high intensity-low volume training and low intensity-high volume training methods.
“There are obvious synergies between this genetic makeup and the demands placed upon him in his playing position. He has some genetic components that signal a faster recovery between workouts, and does not carry a raised risk of soft tissue injury on a genetic level.
“Of course, genetics is only one small part of the picture, but an important part nonetheless. This is a fascinating insight into how one of Rugby’s great players is made.”
Hababa added: “As a legacy, I want other players and athletes to have the opportunity of understanding the makeup of their DNA and how best to train as a result. Looking at these results and what they say about my genetic makeup means that I probably could have pushed myself further in certain areas and who knows the difference this could have made?
“Through the use of science and understanding how we are made, we can develop the ability to create programs using DNA information that will bring out the best of us and change the way people train and possibly the way positions are chosen. Gathering these samples and hopefully many more, has the potential to make a huge impact into our understanding of how to truly unlock our full potential.”
