Research

Mixed

Physical Activity Level (PAL) is strongly influenced by genetic predisposition, with 72-78% of the variance in activity levels within a controlled environment attributed to genetic factors.

Accept that your natural tendency to be active or sedentary is largely genetic. This doesn't mean you can't change, but it means you might need to rely more on structure and habit formation than on 'natural' motivation. Don't compare your baseline activity to others who may have a different genetic predisposition.

GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
The calculated contribution of genetic factors to the variance in physical activity was 72–78% (Joosen et al., 2005). Thus, a large part of the variation in physical activity between subjects can be ascribed to predisposition.
Klass R. Westerterp · Frontiers in Physiology · 2013

Why this rating

Based on twin studies using doubly labeled water validated accelerometers, providing strong causal inference for genetic contribution.

Source

Physical activity and physical activity induced energy expenditure in humans: measurement, determinants, and effects

Klass R. Westerterp · Frontiers in Physiology · 2013

DOI 10.3389/fphys.2013.00090

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DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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