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Influence of Racial Origin and Skeletal Muscle Properties on Disease Prevalence and Physical Performance

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Abstract

Skeletal muscle properties are related to disease (e.g. obesity) and physical performance. For example, a predominance of type I muscle fibres is associated with better performance in endurance sports and a lower risk of obesity. Disease and physical performance also differ among certain racial groups. African Americans are more likely than Caucasians to develop obesity, diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Empirical studies indicate that aerobic capacity is lower in African Americans than Caucasians. Because genetics is a partial determinant of skeletal muscle properties, it is reasonable to assume that skeletal muscle properties vary as a function of race. As such, genetically determined and race-specific skeletal muscle properties may partially explain racial disparities in disease and physical performance. However, additional research is needed in this area to enable the development of more definitive conclusions.

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No sources of funding were used to assist in the preparation of this manuscript. The authors have no conflicts of interest that are directly relevant to the content of this manuscript.

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  1. Section of Sport and Exercise Sciences, The Ohio State University, 344 Larkins, Columbus, Ohio, 43210-1284, USA

    Richard R. Suminski, Craig O. Mattern & Steven T. Devor

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  1. Richard R. Suminski
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Correspondence to Richard R. Suminski.

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Suminski, R.R., Mattern, C.O. & Devor, S.T. Influence of Racial Origin and Skeletal Muscle Properties on Disease Prevalence and Physical Performance. Sports Med 32, 667–673 (2002). https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-200232110-00001

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