421: Walking vs. Running: Which Is Better for Longevity, According to Science

Most people think more cardio is better for you. Run more, burn more, live longer, right? 

Well, my guest today says that’s backward. He’s suffered from aching knees, a busted hip, and a he has a brand-new book to prove it.

Mark Sisson is a New York Times bestselling author and the co-founder of the barefoot shoe company Peluva. He was one of the very first people I read when I left heart surgery to become a nutritionist, and today he’s back with his latest book, Born to Walk: The Broken Promises of the Running Boom and How to Slow Down and Get Healthy One Step at a Time.

We get into why walking may beat running for long-term health, the surprising way running can actually work against your weight loss, and why Mark and his son built Peluva.

This episode is going to change how you think about every single step you take.

On this episode, you’ll learn:  

  • How Mark Sisson went from three-time Runner’s World cover model to falling apart with GERD, IBS, skin issues, and early arthritis (03:36)
  • Why you should only run if you have these 2 characteristics (06:42)
  • My unconventional prescription for living a longer life (10:01)
  • What “exercise snacking” is (and how it beats most workout routines) (16:13)
  • Why running too hard for too long actually stops you from burning fat (19:57)
  • The incredible story of how a man reversed his own type 2 diabetes with 2 simple steps (23:57)
  • Why more than 60% of marathon entrants today are overweight (25:43)
  • The life-long toll running has taken on my body (and what I do about it) (31:07)
  • How regular tennis shoes can be the culprit of most running injuries (32:39)
  • Learn about the design philosophy behind Mark’s barefoot shoes (41:09)
  • The one simple change that will do more for your health than any running program ever will (50:54)

Mark Sisson Resources

Mark’s Instagram

Peluva

Peluva’s Instagram

Marks Daily apple

Thank you to our sponsors! Check them out: 

  • Get a quote today at Progressive.com.
  • Transform your sleep experience with Cozy Earth bedding. Go to cozyearth.com/gundry for 20% off. 
  • For all your blue-light and EMF-blocking accessories, go to boncharge.com/GUNDRY and use the coupon code GUNDRY to save 15% off your entire order.
  • Upgrade your shoes at peluva.com and use code GUNDRY for 10% off plus a free copy of “Born to Walk:

If you liked this episode, you may enjoy:

383: Do Fitness Trackers Really Help With Weight Loss? How to Read Your Oura or WHOOP Data—and How Many Steps You Really Need

340: The 15-minute Workout To Burn Fat Fast

328: The Secret to Stronger Bones (and better joint health!)

285.C New Year’s Resolution: Barefoot Exercising?

Episode Transcript:

EP 421 Transcript

Watch on YouTube:

The #1 Thing You’re Doing WRONG in Your FITNESS Routine for Strength | Brooke Burke & Dr. Gundry

The BEST EXERCISES For Supporting Health & LONGEVITY | Dr. Steven Gundry

Your Muscles Are Dying Because of This And Eating More Protein Won’t Help!

QUIT Killing Yourself at the Gym: Try Short Workouts or Exercise Snacks Instead | Dr. Steven Gundry

*******************************************************************

Dr. Gundry Headshot

Dr. Steven Gundry

Dr. Steven Gundry is a renowned heart surgeon, restorative medicine practitioner, microbiome expert, and four-time New York Times bestselling author of “The Plant Paradox” and more.

Let's Connect