Sign-In
Cart
Born to Walk: The Broken Promises of the Running Boom, and How to Slow Down and Get Healthy--One Step at a Time
Hardcover
Health GeneralSports GeneralGeneral Fitness
Publisher Price: $32.95
ISBN13: 9781736294413
Publisher: Primal Blueprint Publishing
Published: Jan 21 2025
Pages: 350
Weight: 1.75
Height: 0.90 Width: 6.10 Depth: 9.10
Language: English
The romanticized notion that humans are born to run has buoyed the so-called running boom of the past 50 years: well-intentioned fitness enthusiasts lacing up their cushioned shoes and plodding down roads and trails in pursuit of the runner's high, a trim physique, and the fountain of youth. Unfortunately, born to run is a big, fat ruse--a marketing gimmick and a gross misappropriation of evolutionary biology insights about our Homo sapiens genetic attributes for endurance. While any movement away from a sedentary-dominant lifestyle is laudable, the truth is that humans are actually born to walk, not run.
Mark Sisson, New York Times bestselling author, forefather of the ancestral health movement, entrepreneur founder of Primal Kitchen and Peluva footwear, and former 2:18 marathon runner, is officially proclaiming an end to the running boom. For the vast majority of enthusiasts, running--even slow-paced jogging--is far too physically, metabolically, and hormonally stressful to promote health, weight loss, or longevity. Alas, the elevated, heavily cushioned modern running shoe enables ill-adapted people to run with poor technique, increased impact trauma, and a truly embarrassing rate of chronic overuse injuries.
Born To Walk will help reshape fitness culture to reject flawed and dated no pain, no gain ideals, and replace them with a simple, accessible, sustainable program to increase general everyday movement, improve aerobic conditioning the right way, avoid the risks of injury and burnout associated with running, and promote a healthy, happy, energetic, long life-one step at a time. In Born To Walk you'll learn:
- How the endurance runner hypothesis of evolutionary biology is irrelevant to most modern citizens, whose genetic endurance gifts are buried under excess body fat, insufficient daily activity, weak musculature, and dysfunctional feet caused by a lifetime in shoes
- How the running boom was made possible by the invention of the heavily cushioned shoe. Without this, most people would be unable to run more than a short distance (especially on pavement) before succumbing to discomfort or injury
- How elevated, cushioned shoes actually increase impact trauma, enable poor technique, and are the driving cause of overuse injuries
- How to avoid the shocking 50 percent annual injury rate among regular runners by slowing down, improving foot functionality and implementing a correct midfoot landing technique
- How running does not help you lose excess body fat, and in fact can prompt genetic signaling for increased appetite, carb dependency, fat storage, and poor metabolic and hormonal health
- How running can promote a skinny fat physique: deficient strength and muscle mass, poor posture, and an accumulation of health-destructive abdominal fat-even if you run lots of weekly miles
- How an extreme devotion to endurance training can increase cardiovascular disease risk, compromise gut health, and suppress immune and hormonal function
- How the misplaced competitive intensity and struggle & suffer ethos of modern running culture can promote and unhealthy obsession and a high risk of burnout
- How marketing hype, distorted cultural values, and unsavory peer influences lure you into events like marathons and ultras that are inherently antithetical to health
- How aerobic conditioning at comfortable heart rates is the foundation of all fitness endeavors, and improves performance at all higher levels of intensity
- How to identify your ideal training pace using fat max heart rate-likely a brisk walk for most runners
- How the world's greatest endurance athletes train in a relatively less stressful, more sensible manner than the average novice, and how you can refine your approach to honor their protocols
- Why humans have a genetic imperative to walk extensively every day to support cognitive, immune, hormonal and mitochondrial function
- How walking can be a great catalyst for fat reduction by improving metabolic flexibility, regulating appetite and satiety hormones, and prompting an under-the-radar increase in metabolic rate
- How going barefoot or wearing minimalist shoes with flat, flexible soles and individual toe articulation can strengthen feet and reduce injury risk-and why you should walk in them, but not run
- How to implement an ancestral-inspired, broad-based functional fitness program, where your workouts are aligned with human genetic expectations for health.
This approach will get you fitter, leaner, and stronger than ever-without the pain, suffering, and sacrifice of the typical approach to endurance training.
Also in
General Fitness
Walk: Rediscover the Most Natural Way to Boost Your Health and Longevity--One Step at a Time
Conley, Courtney
McDowell, Milica
Hardcover
10-Minute Chair Yoga Exercises for Seniors: 40 Poses to Build Strength and Flexibility for Fall Prevention
Hattori, April
Paperback
The Plunge: Maverick Swimmers, an Unlikely Quest, and the Transformative Power of Cold Water
Ballard, Chris
Hardcover
Hike Strong: The Complete Guide to Building Mountain Strength, Endurance, and Confidence for Hiking and Backpacking
Appleton, James
Paperback
100 No-Equipment Workouts Vol. 1: Easy to Follow Home Workouts Suitable for all Fitness Levels
Rey, Neila
Paperback
How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big: Kind of the Story of My Life
Adams, Scott
Hardcover
Secret Art of Pressure Point Fighting: Techniques to Disable Anyone in Seconds Using Minimal Force
Morris, Vince
Paperback
Long Life Yoga: Essential Practices for Longevity, Well-Being, and Joy at Any Age
Lee, Cyndi
Hardcover
Shoulder Pain? The Solution & Prevention: Fifth Edition, Revised & Expanded
Kirsch, John M.
Paperback
Living Life to the Fullest with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: Guide to Living a Better Quality of Life While Having EDS
Muldowney Pt, Kevin
Muldowney Pt, Kathleen
Hardcover
Next Level: Your Guide to Kicking Ass, Feeling Great, and Crushing Goals Through Menopause and Beyond
Yeager, Selene
Sims, Stacy T., PhD
Paperback
Push: Unlock the Science of Fitness Motivation to Embrace Health and Longevity
Metzl, Jordan D., MD
Metzl, Jordan D., MD
Paperback
Training for the Uphill Athlete: A Manual for Mountain Runners and Ski Mountaineers
Johnston, Scott
Jornet, Kilian
House, Steve
Paperback
Rebuilding Milo: A Lifter's Guide to Fixing Common Injuries and Building a Strong Foundation for Enhancing Performance
Horschig, Aaron
Sonthana, Kevin
Hardcover
Science of Yoga: Understand the Anatomy and Physiology to Perfect Your Practice
Swanson, Ann
Paperback
Military Workout: Train Like a Soldier: The Complete Military Workout Plan for Strength, Fat Loss, and Mental Toughness
Publishing, Zero Excuses
Paperback
Roar, Revised Edition: Match Your Food and Fitness to Your Unique Female Physiology for Optimum Performance, Great Health, and a Strong Body for Life
Sims, Stacy T., PhD
Paperback
5-Minute Chair Yoga for Seniors: Simple Exercises to Improve Mobility and Reclaim Your Confidence
Payge Dolezal, Kierstie
Paperback
10-Minute Strength Training Exercises for Seniors: Exercises and Routines to Build Muscle, Balance, and Stamina
Deboo, Ed, PT
Paperback
The Complete Bone and Joint Health Plan: Help Prevent and Treat Osteoporosis and Arthritis
Nitzkorski, Sydney
Wittstein, Jocelyn
Paperback
Your Health: A Corrective System of Exercising That Revolutionizes the Entire Field of Physical Education
Pilates, Joseph H.
Paperback
Chair Yoga for Strength and Balance: Accessible Exercises to Improve Mobility and Relieve Pain
Maitreyi, ML
Paperback
The Complete Guide to Fasting: Heal Your Body Through Intermittent, Alternate-Day, and Extended Fasting
Fung, Jason
Paperback
Tai Chi For Seniors Over 70: Seated Tai Chi for Featuring Slow Supportive Exercises for Balance and Control
Oak, Julian
Paperback
Coaching with Heart: Taoist Wisdom to Inspire, Empower, and Lead
Huang, Chungliang Al
Lynch, Jerry
Paperback
Chair Yoga for Seniors: Stretches and Poses That You Can Do Sitting Down at Home
Lehmkuhl, Lynn
Paperback
Train Smarter, Not Longer: The Minimum Effective Dose for Muscular Development
Androulakis Korakakis, Patroklos Pak
Paperback
Calisthenics for Beginners: Step-By-Step Workouts to Build Strength at Any Fitness Level
Schifferle, Matt
Paperback
Becoming a Supple Leopard, 2nd Edition: The Ultimate Guide to Resolving Pain, Preventing Injury, and Optimizing Athletic Performance
Starrett, Kelly
Cordoza, Glen
Hardcover
The New Encyclopedia of Knots: 250 Entries - Step-By-Step Illustrations - A Comprehensive Reference Guide
Brachet, Michelle
Paperback
Exercise for Better Bones: The Complete Guide to Safe and Effective Exercises for Osteoporosis
Martin, Margaret
Paperback
Tai Chi Chair Workout Chart for Seniors: 28 Days of Easy Seated Exercises for Stiff Joints, Gentle Mobility, Better Balance, Flexibility, Calm, and Ev
Int-Press, Curious Minds
Loren, Maggy
Paperback
Chair Yoga For Seniors Over 60: Gently Build Strength, Flexibility, Energy, & Mental Fitness In Just 2 Weeks To Improve Your Quality Of Life And Grow
Publications, Chapshaw
Paperback
Training for the New Alpinism: A Manual for the Climber as Athlete
Johnston, Scott
House, Steve
Paperback
Pelvic Liberation: Using Yoga, Self-Inquiry, and Breath Awareness for Pelvic Health
Howard, Leslie
Paperback
Complete Calisthenics, Second Edition: The Ultimate Guide to Bodyweight Exercise
Kalym, Ashley
Paperback
The Miracle Ball Method, Revised Edition: Relieve Your Pain, Reshape Your Body, Reduce Your Stress
Petrone, Elaine
Paperback
The Complete Book of Tai Chi Chuan: A Comprehensive Guide to the Principles and Practice
Kit, Wong Kiew
Paperback
5-Minute Core Exercises for Seniors: Daily Routines to Build Balance and Boost Confidence
Brehse, Cindy
Dzenitis, Tami Brehse
Paperback
Marathon 101: Lessons and Strategies from a Professional Pacer on How to Run Your Personal Best
Masterson, Dave
Paperback
The Pain-Free Body: Simple Stretches and Exercises for Common Aches and Pains
Ginader, Daniel
Paperback
Science of Stretch: Reach Your Flexible Potential, Stay Active, Maximize Mobility
Malek, Leada
Paperback
Authentic Longevity: Unlocking Lifelong Vitality, the Sherwood Way
Sherwood, Michelle
Sherwood, Mark
Paperback
The Diet-Proof Body: 5 Simple Habits to Lose Fat, Keep It Off and Escape Diet Prison for Good
Harrison, Trent
Hardcover
A Beginner's Guide to the Roots of Yoga: How to Create a More Authentic Practice
Desai, Nikita
Paperback
Hike Strong: The Complete Guide to Building Mountain Strength, Endurance, and Confidence for Hiking and Backpacking
Appleton, James
Hardcover
Tai CHI Walking for Seniors: A Step-by-Step Guide to Improve Balance, Prevent Falls, and Soothe Joint Stiffness
Colewood, Marian
Paperback
The Strong System: Transform Your Mindset and Build Your Best Body at Any Age
Lefkowith, Cori
Paperback
Musashi's Book of Five Rings: The Definitive Interpretation of Miyamoto Musashi's Classic Book of Strategy
Kaufman, Stephen F.
Musashi, Miyamoto
Paperback
Chair Yoga: Sit, Stretch, and Strengthen Your Way to a Happier, Healthier You
McGee, Kristin
Paperback
The Fascia Connection: Discover the Key to Flexibility, Vitality, and Pain-Free Living
Lesondak, David
Paperback
Chair Tai Chi For Men Over 60: Empowering Your Health with Gentle, Effective Movements
Oak, Julian
Paperback
The Ocean of Yoga: A Complete Guide to Living the Teachings, Tradition, and Practice
Landry, Amy
Paperback
The Code of the Samurai: A Modern Translation of the Bushido Shoshinshu of Taira Shigesuke
Cleary, Thomas
Hardcover
Dynamic Aging: Simple Exercises for Whole-Body Mobility
Wilgus, Shelah M.
Bowman, Katy
Allen, Joan Virginia
Paperback
Fit at 50: Your Guide to a Stronger, Fitter, and Happier (Mid) Life in Just 6 Weeks
Idiens, Caroline
Hardcover
New Moves in Menopause: A fearless Guide to a Stronger, Healthier & Saner Midlife
Luque, Maria
Paperback
8 Minutes in the Morning(r): A Simple Way to Shed Up to 2 Pounds a Week Guaranteed
Cruise, Jorge
Paperback
Chair Tai Chi for Seniors: Simple Daily Movements to Stay Strong, Steady, and Independent with Illustrations & Videos
Chen M., Ethan
Paperback
10-Minute Tai Chi Walking for Seniors: A Simple 28-Day Programme for Improved Balance, Healthy Weight Management, and Lasting Independence
Publishing, Tai Chi
Paperback
The Climbing Bible: Practical Exercises: Technique and Strength Training for Climbing
Christophersen, Stian
Mobråten, Martin
Paperback
Resistance Band Workouts for Seniors: Strength Training at Home or on the Go
Inkster, Karina
Paperback
Lift: How Women Can Reclaim Their Physical Power and Transform Their Lives
Chaker, Anne Marie
Hardcover
Royal Canadian Air Force Exercise Plans for Physical Fitness: Two Books in One / Two Famous Basic Plans (The XBX Plan for Women, the 5BX Plan for Men)
Royal Canadian Air Force
Paperback
The Injury Guide: Eliminate Pain, Heal Your Injuries, and Keep Moving Forever
Boynton, Erin, MD
Paperback
Running Rewired: Reinvent Your Run for Stability, Strength, and Speed, 2nd Edition
Dicharry, Jay
Paperback
The Triathlete's Training Bible: The World's Most Comprehensive Training Guide, 5th Edition
Friel, Joe
Paperback
Healthier You Food Journal +: 90-Day Nutrition, Fitness, and Wellness Tracker
Rockridge Press
Paperback
10-Minute Chair Tai Chi for Seniors: A Seated 28-Day Program to Improve Mobility, Restore Balance, and Relieve Joint Pain without Standing
Publishing, Tai Chi
Paperback
The Dance Anatomy Coloring Book: A Visual Guide to Form, Function, and Movement
Zweier, Tricia
Paperback
Pilates at Home: Achieve Flexibility, Strength, and Balance with Easy 15-, 30- And 50-Minute Routines
Park, Seo-Hee
Paperback
Tai Chi Walking for Seniors: The Healing Walk Method for Better Balance, Calm, and Low-Impact Indoor Exercise-No Equipment Just 10 Minutes a Day
Press, Wellmara
Winters, Tao
Paperback
The Eye of Revelation 1939 & 1946 Editions Combined: The True Five Tibetan Rites
Witt, Carolinda
Kelder, Peter
Paperback
Younger Next Year: Live Strong, Fit, Sexy, and Smart--Until You're 80 and Beyond
Lodge, Henry S.
Crowley, Chris
Paperback
Integrating Primitive Reflexes Through Play and Exercise: An Interactive Guide to Palmar Grasp, Hands Pulling, and Babkin Reflexes
McDonald, Kokeb Girma
Paperback
A Labor of Grace: Saying Yes to God's Design for Pregnancy, Birth, and Motherhood
Marlatt, Madeline
Paperback
Tai Chi for Seniors and Beginners: A gentle exercise program for mental and physical well-being
Falk Berg, Facc
Paperback
T'ai Chi for Seniors: How to Gain Flexibility, Strength, and Inner Peace
Bonifonte, Sifu Philip
Paperback
I Know I Should Exercise, But...: 44 Reasons We Don't Move and How to Get Over Them
Hill, Diana
Bowman, Katy
Paperback
Heavy Duty Sin Secretos: Todo lo que necesitas para dominar el sistema de Mike Mentzer y transformar tu físico
Publishing, Catalyst
Paperback
Age in Place or Find a New Space: How to Create Beautiful Spaces That Promote Meaningful Interactions
Chiang, Carol
Paperback
Calisthenics Workout Bible: The #1 Guide for Beginners - Over 75+ Bodyweight Exercises (Photos Included)
Harlow, Bruce
Paperback
Rise and Run: Recipes, Rituals and Runs to Fuel Your Day: A Cookbook
Kopecky, Elyse
Flanagan, Shalane
Hardcover
The Roll Model: A Step-By-Step Guide to Erase Pain, Improve Mobility, and Live Better in Your Body
Miller, Jill
Paperback
Chair Yoga for Seniors Over 60 Chart Book: A 28-Day Quick Visual Guide with Gentle Seated Exercises to Support Balance, Flexibility & Daily Mobility N
Loren, Maggy
Int-Press, Curious Minds
Paperback
The Squat Bible: The Ultimate Guide to Mastering the Squat and Finding Your True Strength
Horschig, Aaron
Sonthana, Kevin
Neff, Travis
Paperback
The Way to Vibrant Health: A Manual of Bioenergetic Exercises: 100 Innovative and Powerful Exercises
Lowen, Alexander
Paperback
Beyond Bigger Leaner Stronger: The Advanced Guide to Building Muscle, Staying Lean, and Getting Strong
Matthews, Michael
Paperback
80/20 Triathlon: Discover the Breakthrough Elite-Training Formula for Ultimate Fitness and Performance at All Levels
Warden, David
Fitzgerald, Matt
Paperback
Weight Training for Women: Exercises and Workout Programs for Building Strength with Free Weights
Noelle, Brittany
Paperback
The Strength Training Bible for Seniors: The Ultimate Fitness Guide for the Rest of Your Life
Knopf, Karl
Paperback
Pelvic Floor Yoga for Women: Simple Poses for Healing Your Body and Boosting Strength
D'Arrigo, Christina
Paperback