Indian cricketers are now undergoing DNA test that reveals the genetic fitness blueprint of an individual, raising the bar to a level unseen.Virat Kohli is undoubtedly the fittest person in the Indian team.
The test helps a sportsman improve his speed, in fat burning, endurance, recovery time, and muscle building.It has been learnt that the BCCI has introduced this test on recommendation of team trainer Shankar Basu, so that a more comprehensive fitness program for the national team can be improved.
The DNA test or genetic fitness test, gives an idea about how 40 plus genes are related to a person’s fitness, health, and nutrition. Each cricketer’s DNA data is then combined with the environmental data which is the individual’s body weight and diet, for an all-round analysis.Few of the Indian cricketers have now started to undergo a DNA/genetic fitness test to compete with Kohli and maintain the fitness standard.
This test was first introduced in NBA (basketball) and the NFL in the United States.
“Yes, we have started the DNA test for the Indian cricket team for some time now. It is basically in line with the new fitness parameters, which has been set by the team management. The DNA test was first introduced in the NBA [basketball] and the NFL in the United States. The idea was mooted by Shankar Basu and it has proved to be extremely beneficial. For conducting each and every player’s test, the BCCI spends between Rs 25,000 to Rs 30,000 which is a nominal amount,” said a BCCI senior official
“Skinfold test was used primarily for a long time but it was found out that results related to body fat percentage were not accurate enough. Then there was a switch to DEXA test for calculation of body fat percentage. The DNA test is being done so that the body’s needs are known to maintain a particular fat percentage.”
“Some of them have been having copious amount of milk since childhood as it is a common belief that milk gives you strength. Then they found out that despite training, their body is not able to measure up to the demands of modern day game.
“When this test started, some players understood that they are lactose intolerant or some who have fetish for mutton biryani know what their body needs after eating a particular kind of food,”he added.
