Limits of genetic adaptation?

Andrew Huberman discusses the limits of genetic adaptation in several contexts:

1. Genetic Predispositions: Huberman mentions that everyone has genetic predispositions which can influence their physical capabilities, such as grip strength. However, he emphasizes that neuroplasticity and muscle adaptation allow for a significant range of improvement and development. The upper limits of genetic potential are unknown, and individuals who work harder can often surpass their perceived genetic limitations. This suggests that while genetics set a baseline, hard work and adaptability can extend beyond these initial limits 1.

2. Body Adaptation and Stress: In conversation with Stuart McGill, they discuss how every system in the body requires stress to adapt and grow robust. This adaptation, however, must be managed within certain limits to avoid cumulative trauma or injury. Genetic factors influence how individuals respond to physical stresses and the rates at which they can adapt and recover. Essentially, while there is room for improvement through adaptation, crossing certain stress thresholds can lead to negative outcomes, marking a limit to how much genetic adaptation can compensate without causing harm 2.

These insights highlight that genetic adaptation has a flexible range influenced by effort and adaptation but is bounded by physiological limits to avoid trauma or injury.