That's Fit

I'm sitting here wondering whether I should sign my kids up again for soccer this spring or look for another sport. We just added piano and ballet, they're ho-hum about soccer, maybe it's time for something new. But what?

Turns out 200 of 20,000 genes in the human genome are linked to physical fitness. So it only makes sense there are companies out there capable of analyzing your DNA to match your fitness with your genes. Swab your saliva, answer a lifestyle questionnaire, then send 'em in with $299 to Sciona. This company will test 17 genes and screen for dozens of other variations to guide your physical training, diet and lifestyle choices. Atlas Sports Genetics tests just one gene for $149, marketed as an avenue to discover natural athletic talent in infants to eight-year-olds. One gene expert called that one snake oil. What if little Jimmy doesn't pass the one-gene test? A lowering of parental interest and investment in their child's athletic opportunities?

Competitive sports start too young these days. I find it ridiculous a parent would test their pre-teen's DNA when they should be spending that $149 on a LEGO Star Wars Republic Attack Gunship to build together. Maybe we'll bow out of the overzealous soccer parent rat race and enjoy our son's stab at Hot Cross Buns on the piano and our daughter's ballet plie at the recitals this spring instead.