Fast Twitch Muscle Fibers

There is much literature impressing the assumption that what separates professional athletes (or the best at any field) and those who do not make it, is practice, repetition and working hard to achieve your goals. The 10,000 hour rule has been touted by many, as the rule of thumb to obtain expertise. I can agree with some of these points, but there are some major genetic factors that play a role in whether athletes make it to the professional ranks or not.

First, we must understand muscle fibers. The muscles that we as humans have, are either slow or fast twitch muscle fibers. The normal amount is split 50/50, but those who go on to play professional sports and compete in the Olympics, tend to have a split that is not so even. In fact, Olympic sprinters contain on average, 80/20 fast to slow twitch muscle fibers, as opposed to professional marathon runners whose muscles are composed of the opposite split–80/20–slow to fast twitch muscle fibers.

Slow twitch muscle fibers are better at using oxygen for longer, extended periods. This is great for those who run marathons and compete in long bicycle races. Fast twitch muscles fibers fire more quickly, and use more force, but for a shorter distance and time. This is great for sprinters, football players, and other athletes who require explosiveness.

The composition of your fast twitch and slow twitch muscle fibers, is completely genetic. You can improve your speed and strength with a great program, but as far as improving the composition of your muscle fibers, science still seems to conclude that you get what you get. Even siblings from the same parents all have a different percentage of fast to slow twitch muscle fibers.

To say it only takes focused practice, 10,000 hours of concentrated effort, a certain amount of the right repetition and so on, is not entirely true. No matter how many hours of practice and training someone with 80% slow twitch muscle fiber receives, they will never compete in the 100m at the Olympics. However, you must still do your best with the gifts you have. Our program will utilize your gifts, and ensure you have your best season ever. Contact us now and let us help you to discover your potential.

Sincerely,

Donny Mateaki

Authored by Donny Posted in Blog Tagged as private training kirkland, private training seattle, Speed training Seattle Bellevue Kirkland Redmond, strength training Seattle Bellevue Kirkland Redmond