As endurance athletes, we all have a bit of “crazy.” It’s par for the course. The goal is to identify what specific brand of “crazy” we have and to turn that into a superpower through the many benefits of exercise.

Ever since I swam for my university team, as well as being a swim coach, as well as being a lifeguard decades ago, I’ve studied thousands of athletes from then…until now. There are two types of athletes, although rare, that I can pick out of a crowd. And these individuals potentially have a COMT gene variant.

Personally, those tens-of-thousands of yards in the pool each week were the first time I ever felt “normal” as a young man—and those yards played a crucial part in not only my well being, but also my personality. Not to mention my life-long love for endurance sports.

COMT

Sometimes called the "warrior" or "worrier" gene, the COMT gene variant is a crucial factor to consider for cyclists aiming for peak performance.

The "Warrior" Variant

Cyclists with the "warrior" variant have higher COMT enzyme activity, which breaks down dopamine more quickly in the prefrontal cortex. The lower dopamine can lead them to push harder day-in-and-day-out—often without specific goals or events in mind—in the quest for dopamine. The potential downside? Burnout and injury. However, with proper understanding and management, this drive can be harnessed as a superpower.

The "Worrier" Variant

Cyclists with the "worrier" variant experience reduced COMT enzyme activity, resulting in higher dopamine levels in the prefrontal cortex. This can lead to increased anxiety during workouts and events and a heightened perception of pain.

How to Optimize Your Ride

Genetic Testing and Nutritional Strategies

1. Gene Testing: Identify your COMT gene variant through available genetic tests.

2. Nutritional Support: Implement dietary strategies and supplements to support COMT enzyme function and neurotransmitter balance.

Coaching 3.0: Tailored to Your Genetics

Through coaching, we can provide personalized plans based on your COMT gene variant. This includes:

• For "Warriors": Strategies to prevent burnout and injury, turning relentless drive into sustainable power.

• For "Worriers": Stress management techniques and pain mitigation strategies to enhance performance and resilience.

Achieve Peak Performance

By understanding your COMT gene type and adopting the right nutritional and training strategies, you can achieve your best ride. Whether you are a "warrior" or a "worrier," personalized coaching can help you unlock your full potential and excel in cycling.

That's coaching 3.0!