The Sports Gene: A Review

After reading through the latest issue of Runners' World I was intrigued by a review that had been written about David Epstein's new book, The Sports Gene. After reading a couple more reviews for the book online I ran next door to the local bookstore and picked up a copy for myself.

An excellent decision, really; I have hardly put the book down.  In a style similar to Christopher McDougall's Born to Run or Jamial Yogis' The Fear Project this book is written by a journalist who became interested in a particular area and has infused a compilation of scientific studies with stories old and knew of great athletes and their achievements. While McDougall focused in on runners specific studies, and Yogis was all about the brain's part in athletics, Epstein covers everything from tendons and ligaments to depth perception and trainability. He pulls out tales of athletes from a wide range of sports, ages, talent levels, countries and backgrounds in an attempt to cover every possible angle and area which might effect the overall outcome of athletic prowess.

In this nature versus nurture debate Epstein is a pro at covering both sides of the argument and providing examples for each argument; demonstrating how there is never just one factor at play.

My suggesting: Go pick up a copy of this book and read it for yourself, you'll be glad you did.