The lazy gene

Are you a couch potato? If so, it turns out that laziness isn't just a bad habit -- it may actually be coded in your genes.

A research team from the University of North Carolina has conducted preliminary studies on mice that suggest our genetic makeup may predispose us to being lazy. The team indicated different genomic areas that regulate activity levels. The research team is gearing up to do a human-based study of a similar nature.

The researchers indicate that genetics account for roughly 50% of the differences in activity. If the same genetic traits prove to be valid in humans, it's certainly an interesting concept. Exercise and activity has by and large been considered a healthy choice to make. And, while even if genes play a role, it still is ultimately a choice -- a genetic difference would show that certain people have a larger natural drive to be active.