The Daily 'The Interview': Kílian Jornet on What We Can Learn From Pushing Our Bodies to Extremes
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Jan 17, 2026 
Kílian Jornet, a professional ultramarathoner and mountaineer renowned for conquering some of the world’s highest peaks, discusses his unique philosophy on pushing physical limits. He shares how engaging with nature through extreme activities brings him peace and fosters connections. Kílian reflects on the meditative qualities of mountaineering, the risks he navigates, and the lessons learned from a friend's tragic fall. He also explores the balance between sport and family responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of teaching children to appreciate the outdoors.
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Movement As Self-Connection
- Kílian Jornet says running, climbing, and biking are tools to explore mountains and reconnect with oneself.
- He argues humans are built to move and that wilderness restores focus away from constant external information.
Teen Experiment With Fasting
- As a teen Kílian experimented with extremes, once fasting five days while training and collapsing mid-run.
- He frames these acts as curiosity-driven experiments to explore bodily limits.
Limits Are Physical And Mental
- With experience you learn your body's signals, but mind and fear complicate limits assessment.
- Jornet cautions limits are close to death and that life-threatening situations reveal hidden resources.