Genetic and biological drivers of physical activity and exercise participation (GEDROPA)

Genetics is one of the most significant factors explaining human physical activity behaviour. Based on twin studies, the heritability of physical activity is approximately 30–60%. Genetics may also explain why some people develop physical attributes more easily than others, derive greater pleasure from physical activity, or enjoy physical activity more than others. There is strong evidence for the genetic regulation of physical activity behaviour. This is based on evolutionary biological processes and the selection of traits that have promoted survival in a world of limited resources. Due to inadequate research methods, it has not previously been possible to study individual variation in physical activity levels or to determine why some people are more active than others. It is important to investigate the influence of genetics on the choice of a physically active lifestyle, as there is a risk that health-promoting measures aimed at the entire population will only motivate those who are naturally physically active or who derive exceptional benefits from it. This could even lead to an increase in health inequalities within the population.

It is only recent methodological and data infrastructure breakthroughs that have made it possible to study genome-wide variation in individuals and physical activity behaviour at a population level. In our study, we utilise previously untapped large-scale biobank datasets, as well as data on physical activity measured by accelerometers and self-reported physical activity. As a new perspective, we utilise data on the heritability of physical activity enjoyment to investigate individual differences in people’s long-term physical activity levels. In addition to large biobank datasets, we utilise long-term lifestyle intervention studies conducted on Finns of different ages to investigate any genetic differences between the participants in these studies compared to the rest of the population. Furthermore, we aim to understand the significance of these lifestyle intervention studies in terms of health inequalities. If we gain a better understanding of the heritability of physical activity, this will help us in the future to design more effective policy measures to reduce health inequalities within the Finnish population.