While genes certainly influence height and bone structure, modern research offers a far more empowering reality. Genes are not a fixed set of instructions. Instead, they behave like dimmer switches - and exercise is the hand that turns them up or down.

Most people believe weight loss comes down to two things - nutrition and exercise. But research shows there is a third factor that can dramatically influence your results. That factor is sleep. In fact, sleep may determine whether the weight you lose comes from fat or muscle. If your goal is to become leaner, stronger, and healthier, sleep could be one of the most important habits you focus on.