Conor Heffernan
Professor of social sciences and sport at Ulster University and author of When Fitness Went Global, specializing in the history of physical culture and the 19th-century origins of the modern fitness industry.
Top 5 podcasts with Conor Heffernan
Ranked by the Snipd community
50 snips
Sep 30, 2024 • 1h 2min
5,000 Years of Sweat: Lost Workout Wisdom From the History of Physical Culture
Dr. Conor Heffernan, a lecturer at Ulster University and author on the history of physical culture, takes us on an enlightening journey through the ages of exercise. He reveals how fitness practices date back to ancient civilizations, from Egyptians testing their rulers' stamina to Greeks blending physical training with philosophy. Conor discusses timeless principles that remain relevant today and shares insights on the evolution of fitness from military roots to modern-day enjoyment, emphasizing the importance of community in strength training.
11 snips
Nov 27, 2025 • 1h 1min
How the Fitness Industry Began: Exploring 200+ Years of Training Evolution with Professor Conor Heffernan
Join Conor Heffernan, a professor at Ulster University and author specializing in the evolution of fitness, as he dives into the fascinating history of the fitness industry. Discover how the 19th century, influenced by Napoleon and industrialization, paved the way for modern training practices. Heffernan shares wild early fitness claims, the emergence of competitions, and the role of mass media in democratizing fitness. With insights into historical equipment and the shift from natural movement to structured training, this conversation is a treasure trove for history and fitness buffs alike!
Mar 19, 2025 • 1h 40min
Ep 319 - Bodybuilding Mortality Across the Eras (ft. Drs Conor Heffernan and Juan Carlos Cassano)
Join Conor Heffernan, a PhD in sports history, and Juan Carlos Casano, a biochemist and bodybuilding historian, as they dive into the dark side of bodybuilding. They reveal unsettling mortality trends linked to performance-enhancing drugs and explore the cultural norms that have shaped the sport. Discussion touches on the motivations behind bodybuilding, the impact of social media, and the need for better athlete welfare. The conversation advocates for transparency and a cultural shift in how bodybuilding is viewed and practiced.
Dec 11, 2024 • 1h 28min
Ep 305 - What is Strength? (w/Drs. Adrian Kind, Conor Heffernan & Walter Veit)
Join Dr. Conor Heffernan, a historical expert on strength, and philosophers Dr. Adrian Kind and Dr. Walter Veit as they explore the evolving concept of strength. They discuss how societal perceptions of strength have transformed from ancient Greece to modern competitions. The trio dives into philosophical debates surrounding strength training's classification as a sport, ethical dilemmas in gym etiquette, and the balance between objective measurement and the spectacle of strength sports. Expect an engaging blend of history, culture, and philosophical insight!
Sep 30, 2024 • 1h 26min
Ep. 294 - All Around Lifting: The First Form of Competitive Lifting (with Drs. Conor Heffernan & Cliff Harvey)
Dr. Conor Heffernan, a historian of strength sports, and Dr. Cliff Harvey, a former All Around world champion, dive into the fascinating origins of weightlifting. They reveal how All Around Lifting was the precursor to modern lifting, showcasing its diverse and inclusive nature. With discussions on training methodologies and competition structures, the duo highlights how this original sport fosters community spirit. They also reflect on the evolution of weightlifting, emphasizing the need for a broader understanding of strength in today's fitness culture.
