Pilates Thoughtful Tuesday: Thanks Mum, It’s All in the Genes

A mother lovingly cradles her baby, sharing a serene and tender moment.

We all know that mums love to remind us of everything they have done for us. Carried us for nine months, fed us, raised us, nagged us into eating vegetables. But here is the twist. Even when it comes to your very DNA, your mum’s influence is written all over you. Literally.

So today let us have some fun with science and look at five fascinating and sometimes hilarious genetic traits that sons inherit from their mothers.

1. Height – Mum Sets the Bar (Quite Literally)

Think your height comes from your dad? Think again. The X chromosome, which you inherit from your mother, plays a big role here. There is even a saying that a son’s height can often be traced back to his mum. So next time someone asks why you are tall or why you are still waiting for that growth spurt, thank or blame Mum.

2. Hairlines Don’t Lie

Here is a funny one. Your dad being bald does not automatically mean you are doomed to join the shiny head club. But if your mum’s side of the family has dodgy hairlines, well… sorry son, that crown might be thinning sooner than you would like. Just remember bald is beautiful and hats are stylish.

3. Immune System – Mum’s Secret Superpower

Ever noticed how mums seem to survive winters armed with nothing but hot tea, while their kids go down with the flu? That is genetics at work. Your immune system is heavily influenced by your mum through something called the histocompatibility complex. Sounds fancy, but really it just means if Mum has got a strong immune system, you probably do too.

4. Ageing and Energy – Thanks for the Mitochondria

Mitochondrial DNA comes exclusively from your mother. This little powerhouse not only affects how you age but also influences your energy and metabolism. Translation? The wrinkles you get later in life and whether you can bounce through a Pilates class or collapse halfway are all tied to your mum’s genetic gift.

5. Intelligence and Colour Perception – Mum Knows Best (Again)

Here is where it gets really interesting. Studies suggest that a son’s IQ potential is more closely linked to his mum than his dad. So if you did well at school, thank your mother. If you did not, maybe do not mention this part at Sunday lunch.

And colour perception? That quirky family debate over whether the dress is blue or gold, yes, that is in the genes too, courtesy of your mum. Certain conditions like colour blindness, haemophilia and muscular dystrophy can only come through the maternal line.

A Thoughtful Pilates Tuesday Takeaway

So there you have it. Your height, your hairline, your immune system, your energy, your brainpower, and even the way you see colours all link back to one very important person. Mum.

It is a fun reminder that no matter how independent we think we are, our roots run deep. And on a thoughtful note, just as our mothers pass on traits that shape us, we as teachers, mentors and friends pass on influences that go far beyond the studio. What we say, how we guide, and how we support others leaves a legacy too.

So, maybe today drop Mum a message. Say thanks for the mitochondria.