How nature and nurture conspire to influence athletic success

This chapter provides an overview on the influence of genetic (i.e., nature) and environmental (i.e., nurture) factors in athlete development. First, the historical conception of the terms nature and nurture to explain inter-individual differences is examined, alongside the evolution of the original dichotomous debate. Subsequently, the contemporary “variance explained” debate is then analysed, with an in-depth discussion concerning the nurture-centric view of “deliberate practice” and nature-orientated position of “heritability”. Following these comparisons, a review of molecular genetic research in sport is provided. Specifically, key terms are initially explained, and examples of specific genetic variants in athletic development and an overall assessment of the current progress of the field are presented. Finally, the interaction of genetic and environmental influences is discussed, and recommendations are proposed for future nature and nurture research to facilitate enhanced practical implications.