BJSM Podcast
We never evolved to exercise. Why exercise is not always effective medicine. EP#566
Jan 13, 2025
Chris Macdonald, a researcher at the University of Copenhagen and an elite athlete, joins Harvard's Professor Daniel Lieberman, a paleoanthropologist known for his work on endurance running. They explore why exercise often fails as effective medicine, highlighting our evolutionary instincts against voluntary activity. They discuss the distinction between efficacy and effectiveness in treating conditions like type 2 diabetes. The conversation emphasizes the need for enjoyable exercises and supportive environments to foster long-term adherence and engagement in physical activity.
39:40
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Quick takeaways
- Understanding our evolutionary instincts reveals why modern exercise prescriptions often clash with our natural tendencies to conserve energy.
- Effective long-term adherence to exercise requires innovative, enjoyable strategies that prioritize social engagement over traditional approaches.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Medicalizing Exercise
Medicalizing exercise presents inherent challenges because it asks individuals to engage in voluntary physical activity that runs counter to their natural instincts. Humans evolved to be physically active primarily out of necessity, rather than for fitness or health, as is often mandated in modern exercise prescriptions. The instinct to conserve energy is deeply ingrained, making it difficult for many to comply with exercise recommendations, similar to the struggle of adhering to dietary restrictions. Acknowledging these obstacles is crucial for developing more effective strategies to encourage regular physical activity, especially in individuals managing chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes.
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