The Future of Training: Leveraging Genetics for Athletic Success

In this episode of The Genetic Coach, host Di White sits down with endurance athlete Jeff Hsu, an early adopter of Genefit. Jeff, a lifelong cyclist and software development manager, shares how genetic insights have reshaped his approach to training, nutrition, and recovery - leading him to shave 30 minutes off his marathon time. Discover how personalized genetic data, paired with technology and smart wearables, can optimize performance and prevent injuries. If you’ve ever wondered how genetics can fine-tune your training, this episode is for you!

Key Talking Points:

Jeff Hsu’s Background & Training Journey

•Former high school athlete turned endurance cyclist and now a marathon runner.

•Balancing training with a full-time tech career at companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and PayPal.

•Transitioned to running for efficiency—easier to fit into a busy schedule than cycling.

Genetic Testing & Key Insights

•Initially interested in 23andMe-style testing, but discovered the power of sports genetics.

• Test revealed strong endurance genes and fast recovery ability, yet Jeff wasn’t recovering well due to deficiencies.

• Identified B-vitamin & vitamin D deficiencies, leading to a personalized supplementation strategy.

Data-Driven Training & Recovery

•Early adopter of power meters & wearables to track training load.

•Used GeneFit run program to train for his second marathon—improving by 30 minutes.

•Session Scores & Load Balance from GeneFit helped fine-tune daily workouts.

Preventing Injuries & Overtraining

•Struggled with cramping issues, tried different nutrition strategies.

•Monitored connective tissue injury risk through GeneFit and adjusted training.

•Incorporated yoga & cross-training (tennis, hiking, cycling) to maintain fitness while reducing injury risk.

The Future of Personalized Training

•Genetic insights validate and refine traditional training plans.

• Genetic data helps personalize nutrition, recovery, and workout intensity.

•Advocates for more athletes integrating genetic testing & wearable tech into their training for sustainable performance improvements.