Lay opinion vs evidence: Sportgene Kinder

The popular belief that a genetic test for sports genes (e.g., ACTN3, ACE) can reliably predict a child's athletic talent or optimal sport is widespread but poorly supported by evidence. Individual gene variants have very small effect sizes (often <1 % of variance) and are overshadowed by environmental factors like training, nutrition, and motivation. Most studies are in adults; longitudinal data in children are lacking. Therefore, such tests cannot provide personalized sports recommendations. MyBody-X sports gene tests fall into direct-to-consumer marketing with limited clinical utility. Parents should focus on encouraging physical activity and enjoyment rather than relying on genetic predictions.