Born to Walk

More about the book

The romanticized idea that humans are "born to run" has fueled a running boom over the past 50 years, with fitness enthusiasts chasing the runner's high and a youthful physique. However, this notion is misleading—humans are actually born to walk, not run. Mark Sisson, a New York Times bestselling author and former marathon runner, argues that running, even at a slow pace, is often too stressful for most people to promote health or longevity. Modern cushioned running shoes allow individuals with poor technique to run, leading to increased injuries. This work aims to reshape fitness culture by rejecting outdated "no pain, no gain" ideals and promoting a sustainable program focused on everyday movement and proper aerobic conditioning. You'll discover how the "endurance runner hypothesis" is irrelevant for many, as genetic endurance traits are masked by excess body fat and inactivity. The cushioned shoe trend has made running accessible but has also contributed to injury rates. Running may not aid in fat loss and can even increase appetite and fat storage. Additionally, a focus on endurance training can lead to health issues, including cardiovascular risks and poor metabolic health. This guide emphasizes the importance of aerobic conditioning at comfortable heart rates and encourages walking as a means to enhance overall health. It also advocates for minimalist footwear to strengthen feet and reduce injury risk. Ultimately, it pr