Combine These Two Exercises to Burn Fat, Boost Strength, & Increase Your Longevity - With Michael Easter

46 snips

Jan 21, 2026

Michael Easter, a New York Times bestselling author passionate about human performance, shares insights on the benefits of walking with weight. He reveals how this unique exercise combines cardio and strength training, essential for fat loss and longevity. Michael discusses our evolutionary need to carry weight, the dangers of modern conveniences, and the impressive results of rucking on metabolism. Learn practical tips for incorporating weight into your daily life and discover how outdoor activities enhance mental resilience.

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INSIGHT

Humans Evolved To Carry Loads

Humans are uniquely adapted to carry weight while covering long distances, a trait that shaped our evolution.
Michael Easter argues carrying was engineered out by technology and should be reintegrated for health.

INSIGHT

Why Weighted Walking Favors Fat Loss

Walking with weight combines endurance work and muscle stimulus, which promotes fat loss while preserving muscle.
Easter cites backcountry hunters who lost mostly fat and preserved or slightly gained muscle during heavy-pack trips.

ANECDOTE

Author's Backpacking Weight Loss Story

Michael Easter described losing about 15 pounds on long backpacking trips and feeling leaner, not weaker.
He used those personal hikes to corroborate the fat-loss and muscle-preservation effects of heavy packs.

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Most people today realize the numerous health benefits that walking can provide. But in recent years, the trend of walking with a weighted vest has gained a lot of traction. Today, you’re going to learn how weighted walking can improve your health.

Today’s guest, Michael Easter, is a New York Times bestselling author who is passionate about sharing science-backed strategies you can use to optimize your life and fitness level. On this episode of The Model Health Show, Michael is back for a fascinating conversation on how walking with weight can improve your metabolism, strength, and much more!

You’re going to learn why humans are built to carry weight, and how this movement pattern shaped our evolution as a species. We’re going to uncover how walking with weight can offer the unique combination of both cardio and strength training, and how you can easily incorporate this routine into your everyday life. I hope you enjoy this episode of The Model Health Show!

In this episode you’ll discover:

Why the human species was designed to walk while carrying weight. (3:21)
How technology has changed our relationship with weighted walking. (4:01)
The science behind how walking with weight can help you lose fat. (6:15)
How using a weighted vest can aid in weight loss maintenance. (10:26)
Advice for preventing injury while walking with weight. (15:25)
How much weight to carry as a beginner. (20:15)
Why carrying weight can improve your lifespan. (32:31)
What NEAT is and why it matters. (37:24)
The importance of going outside for human health. (43:12)
How to get started with weighted walking. (56:45)

Items mentioned in this episode include:

DrinkLMNT.com/model - Get a FREE sample pack of electrolytes with any order!
Organifi.com/Model - Use the coupon code MODEL for 20% off + free shipping!
Walk with Weight by Michael Easter - Pre-order your copy today!
The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter - Read Michael’s bestselling book!
Walkfully - Check out Michael’s company!
Connect with Michael Easter Website / Substack / Instagram

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This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by LMNT and Organifi.

Head to DrinkLMNT.com/model to claim a FREE sample pack of electrolytes with any purchase.

Organifi makes nutrition easy and delicious for everyone. Take 20% off your order with the code MODEL at organifi.com/model.