High Performance Health

Bitesize: Why Running Might Be Wrecking Your Hormones (And What to Do Instead) | Mark Sisson

May 22, 2025
Mark Sisson, founder of the Primal Health Movement and bestselling author, discusses the surprising drawbacks of running. He argues that the human body is naturally designed for walking, which improves mood and digestion. Sisson critiques the running culture, highlighting how modern shoes can lead to injury and long-term health issues. He explains how chronic running increases cortisol levels, potentially causing harmful changes in body composition. The conversation champions walking as a superior exercise for most people.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Body Designed to Walk

  • The human body is naturally designed for walking and frequent movement throughout the day.
  • Walking supports mood, digestion, and lymphatic system function effectively.
INSIGHT

Running Often Harmful for Most

  • Most people should not run regularly as it is often harmful and inappropriate for health and longevity.
  • The running boom has been detrimental due to inappropriate footwear and running practices.
ADVICE

Walk More, Run Smartly

  • Focus your fitness strategy on walking, metabolic flexibility, lifting weights, and sprinting occasionally.
  • Use running sparingly and only with proper form and minimalist shoes.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app