Are we born to run? | Christopher McDougall

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  • 게시일 2011. 02. 03.
  • www.ted.com Christopher McDougall explores the mysteries of the human desire to run. How did running help early humans survive -- and what urges from our ancient ancestors spur us on today? At TEDxPennQuarter, McDougall tells the story of the marathoner with a heart of gold, the unlikely ultra-runner, and the hidden tribe in Mexico that runs to live.
    TEDTalks is a daily video podcast of the best talks and performances from the TED Conference, where the world's leading thinkers and doers give the talk of their lives in 18 minutes. Featured speakers have included Al Gore on climate change, Philippe Starck on design, Jill Bolte Taylor on observing her own stroke, Nicholas Negroponte on One Laptop per Child, Jane Goodall on chimpanzees, Bill Gates on malaria and mosquitoes, Pattie Maes on the "Sixth Sense" wearable tech, and "Lost" producer JJ Abrams on the allure of mystery. TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, Design, and TEDTalks cover these topics as well as science, business, development and the arts. Closed captions and translated subtitles in a variety of languages are now available on TED.com, at www.ted.com/translate.
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댓글 • 2.6K

  • @crookedpaths6612
    @crookedpaths6612 5 년 전 +1479

    Damn right. Just three minutes after being born, I looked up at my mother and said “Well don’t just lay there. We’ve got a wildebeest to catch!”

    • @genxtechguy
      @genxtechguy 5 년 전 +19

      😂 .. your comment is currently highly under thumb’d up’d.

    • @ABESW0RLD
      @ABESW0RLD 5 년 전 +3

      They obviously carry the babies... Just sayin,

    • @briantindall1775
      @briantindall1775 4 년 전 +1

      Lol

    • @TheSmithyChannel
      @TheSmithyChannel 4 년 전 +15

      @@AEON. chill bro

    • @r_unner_G
      @r_unner_G 4 년 전

      ...and while balancing a full barrell of water on top of her head.

  • @germanrud9904
    @germanrud9904 5 년 전 +1381

    One time i dropped acid and went to a track at 2 am. Procerded to run effortlessly for 2 hours while maintaining the most beautifully consistent running cadence. My mind was inside my hips, it was glorious.

  • @48jerrybiker
    @48jerrybiker 4 년 전 +71

    I run because I can. I’m 71 and running keeps me healthier. Plus I can interact and run with my 13 grandkids. Although it’s becoming obvious I’m getting slower and they are getting faster.

  • @ChadZuberAdventures
    @ChadZuberAdventures 6 년 전 +360

    I love this talk! I'm addicted to running. It is an incredible source of joy and happiness and health in my life.

    • @triston319
      @triston319 3 년 전 +6

      @@naidu5365 your heart rate should go up as you run because your heart pumps more oxygen out when your running’s than sitting still, over time you should improve your Vo2 max and your lungs and heart improve they do not get worse

    • @Oliver-bn7jt
      @Oliver-bn7jt 3 년 전 +1

      @@triston319 true

    • @colbycalabrese8417
      @colbycalabrese8417 2 년 전 +1

      I love your chanel!

    • @KevinMeyerSSK
      @KevinMeyerSSK 2 년 전

      I just got injury yesterday lol I am going barefoot Kappa

    • @Traforaj69
      @Traforaj69 2 년 전

      Same here!

  • @shayslayer1161
    @shayslayer1161 5 년 전 +63

    I’m on the Sierra Nevada cross country team, and what makes races so cool is how kind everyone is. I had a pretty serious injury part way through a 5k and I wanted to stop, but a group of girls I’ve never met boxed me in and helped me finish. It’s a team sport, even when you’re on different teams

  • @19Jetta
    @19Jetta 9 년 전 +2223

    Here's where Americans went wrong: we stopped running for fun. We run to lose weight, to get healthier, because we "should"...here's a novel idea: why not run because it is fun? Because it is fun to run around outside in the fresh air, much more fun than, say, sitting at a desk or compulsively checking one's phone for messages. Just a thought--

    • @Anton77796
      @Anton77796 7 년 전 +53

      I don't know, if it was so, everybody would run outside.

    • @Nekojita972
      @Nekojita972 7 년 전

      Is it bad?

    • @grantallen582
      @grantallen582 7 년 전 +23

      19Jetta i run for fun and im American

    • @19Jetta
      @19Jetta 7 년 전 +4

      Good for you! Me too :)

    • @gomarugames6709
      @gomarugames6709 6 년 전 +97

      Because we teach our kids don't run! No running in the house or school or anywhere. Then as adults we just walk all the time, we get lazy, we lack energy to run because of this. After you hit a certain point it is more work to get in shape than it is worth in the mind. We need to encourage our kids to just run everywhere all the time.

  • @SensSword
    @SensSword 5 년 전 +57

    This is the guy who inspired me to start exercising. I'm about 3000 miles/5000 kilometers in so far, and hope to add many thousands more over many years.

    • @SensSword
      @SensSword 5 년 전 +2

      p.s.. I still wear my Vibrams.

    • @G4RR3TTJ
      @G4RR3TTJ 년 전 +1

      R.I.P. your knees

    • @carlosrosales1712
      @carlosrosales1712 년 전 +14

      @@G4RR3TTJ exact opposite actually 😂 running strengthens your knees

    • @jorgeenchilada
      @jorgeenchilada 3 개월 전

      @@G4RR3TTJ if you wear barefoot shoes it should never be a problem.

  • @seanmulholland7597
    @seanmulholland7597 4 년 전 +130

    Just started running and within 3 weeks I’ve went from .5 miles
    To 6
    Miles under an hour ,
    And it feels
    Amazing .

    • @doreenm2160
      @doreenm2160 4 년 전 +6

      Wow impressive. How did you did it. Am on my first week struggling with 2kms. Kindly advise

    • @solar0wind
      @solar0wind 4 년 전 +11

      What helps for me is interval training. In the beginning you walk 2 minutes than run 2 minutes and repeat this a couple of times. Than 3 minutes of running, 2 minutes of walking, 4 minutes of running 2 minutes of walking, and so on. Choose intervals that feel good to you. You don't have to do it exactly like that. Then shorten your walking time and increase running time. At some point you can run for 15 minutes straight, walk 1 or 2 minutes, then run for another 15 minutes. Next time, run half an hour straight. You should make at least 3,5km in this time. Then your 2k will not be any problem any longer :) I was in the exact same situation as you, and this helped me tremendously. I had a training plan that I found online that told me specific intervals. I progressed quickly. It's in German unfortunately, but maybe you'll find a similar one. Or just make up your own intervals. Good luck!

    • @newbeginnings9457
      @newbeginnings9457 2 년 전 +2

      Good way to get injured! That’s too fast too soon! Good luck

    • @joemadre9550
      @joemadre9550 2 년 전 +1

      Slow down, turbo ;-p long slow miles.

    • @noiselord4280
      @noiselord4280 년 전

      I started running in October and just ran my first event last weekend, Cheaha 50k. I dropped halfway as I’m from FL and have never climbed a mountain, much less ran one hahaha on top of that I was sick and it rained the whole weekend! But I made it 15 miles. I can’t believe it!!! I’m addicted now. Can’t wait to give another ultra a shot! But I do wish I lived closer to some mountains to train properly.

  • @thaitopfitness
    @thaitopfitness 11 년 전 +180

    What a fantastic video! I've really noticed that as I've slowly made the move from weight training and gaining size, to endurance events, my personality has changed in a highly positive way. I'm so much more relaxed now, I feel AMAZING, my memory has improved in leaps and bounds,
    and my concentration is phenomenal.

    • @thaitopfitness
      @thaitopfitness 3 년 전

      @@gutsybaron805 I still train a lot. My Instagram is markabbott_official if you wanna follow what I do. The weight training definitely hinders my running but it's a trade off that I'm willing to make. I mean, I'm not slow, but I could be faster.

    • @myhairdays9783
      @myhairdays9783 2 년 전 +1

      It’s funny I started running recently and just noticed today how my memory has gotten much better

    • @michael13419
      @michael13419 년 전 +1

      @@myhairdays9783 same thing here! 25 miles a week and my memory is better. I also don’t pause and say “umm” when speaking nearly as often as I used to.

    • @myhairdays9783
      @myhairdays9783 년 전 +1

      @@michael13419 it’s insane how something that is so mentally challenging is also so mentally beneficial! Congrats on getting up to 25 miles, I’m trying to increase my running to that as well

  • @Loppy2345
    @Loppy2345 8 년 전 +1072

    The question actually isn't about shoes vs no shoes. It's actually about running technique, and barefoot running forces the correct technique to minimize the impact, crucial for long distance running. Learn the correct running technique, then get the right type of running shoe, then go about trying to go faster over longer distances.

    • @Tomasmoravia
      @Tomasmoravia 7 년 전 +11

      Yeah because doctors have never seen a foot not deformed and crooked by shoe, then the question is not about shoes. The feet minimize the impact since you do not even hit your heel. Or you can buy new Nike shoes with some plastic technology.

    • @cyanidedrake6879
      @cyanidedrake6879 7 년 전 +36

      since the running shoes are very crooked( back end is super thick) My foot hits the ground heel first and its basically unavoidable

    • @Tomasmoravia
      @Tomasmoravia 7 년 전 +6

      CyanideDrake
      Since I have made my huaraches from 3mm thick shoe tread I have learned to walk and run again with my tip of foot landing first.

    • @matthewbakken3997
      @matthewbakken3997 7 년 전 +55

      Actually he was talking about barefoot running. When you run barefoot your feet land with minimal impact and land on the ball of your feet, which is the way you are suppose to run. Running shoes permit your feet to run naturally. Also, barefoot running is't actually barefoot, majority of the time it is a shoe with minimal to no support that's only purpose is to protect the skin on the foot. What you are saying is outdated knowledge about running.

    • @haidaraidid5157
      @haidaraidid5157 7 년 전 +28

      Loppy2345 then try to run 20 km everyday with running shoes and feel the pain. I run 20km everyday barefoot and have no injury.

  • @hellodre
    @hellodre 4 년 전 +22

    I did not plan on watching this entire video, but I certainly did! This speaker managed to keep my attention and interest the entire 15 min video, and I’m not even a runner!

  • @LukeTheNuke2
    @LukeTheNuke2 3 년 전 +21

    I enjoy running everyday, and I definitely do it for the decompression that it offers. I think the thing that would helps us get back to running more is embracing pain. You have to cherish that feeling of being sore, then if you run for long enough your adrenaline kicks in and heart rate increases and you can keep going. It’s truly awesome.

  • @UgurDinch
    @UgurDinch 7 년 전 +350

    When there is a big cushion under our foot, we can get away with all kinds of shenanigans that the rest of the lower body may not agree, while feet not hurting at all. When barefoot, one must run with most care in order for feet to not hurt, and that can correct the running technique, and therefore become injury-free.

    • @killboy741
      @killboy741 4 년 전 +4

      Having hip/lower back pain right now, ran 9 km yesterday. I didn't know about this, are you sure? I don't know if I land on my heels or not, I'll watch it next time I run.

    • @adamlamermusic
      @adamlamermusic 4 년 전 +12

      @@killboy741 Standard running shoes (loads of cushioning along with an elevated heel) will force your foot into a position where it is easier to have bad form (long strides, heel striking, etc). When you run barefoot or in a minimalist shoe, you know when your form isn't right pretty quickly; the cushioning of a typical shoe will prevent this until it manifests as an injury.
      I recently started running in a minimalist sandal (Xero Z-Treks) and love it! I still run in my "normal" running shoes as well, but focusing on my form (which the sandals help me to do) has helped me overall. I've noticed where I used to get "weirdness" in my knees on longer runs, I don't anymore.

    • @killboy741
      @killboy741 4 년 전

      Nicholas Brown Thanks for the input! I've been watching how I land, and I have less pain now afterwards. I broke my foot/ankle in three places three years ago, so maybe I started running differently because of that.

    • @HickLif3
      @HickLif3 4 년 전 +1

      @@AEON. This is why when I was in the Navy I would drop out of formation runs. Not because I was tired, we were going as fast as the slowest person since they were setting the pace upfront, but because my back was killing me and I needed to stretch my legs and try and run properly. It sucked. I ended up getting a LLD chit for about the last year of my enlistment that specifically said I could run on my own but under no circumstances could I run in formation, my back just wouldn’t allow it. My COC didn't like seeing me run on my own but I honestly couldn’t care less.

    • @treebeardtheent2200
      @treebeardtheent2200 2 년 전

      @@HickLif3 A change of shoes might have fixed the whole thing.
      Team cohesion is important, but bad ideas, like the cushioned running shoe, ruins a lot of good things.

  • @EvanNagao
    @EvanNagao 4 년 전 +450

    This guy lowkey looks like handsome squidward

  • @williamkauffman5745
    @williamkauffman5745 4 년 전 +14

    In my 40's when job stress got high, I took up long distance lap swimming; the peace of mind and relaxation it gave me worked, others I knew who did not do this literally "cracked-up" under the pressure. Good talk. I think you are entirely correct.

    • @Dapryor
      @Dapryor 9 개월 전

      That’s a great way to put it.

  • @Indasaid
    @Indasaid 4 년 전 +14

    Started running as a child and never stopped. Love it!

  • @michaelzhao3452
    @michaelzhao3452 8 년 전 +36

    What a great speaker! I like how he effortlessly weaves humor into a logical analysis of humankind. Probably reaches a bit too far at times, but I love the the emphasis on minimalism and humans doing what we're meant to do.

  • @patrickalaggio3560
    @patrickalaggio3560 5 년 전 +1645

    Great if you have grass, fields and forests where no idiot has thrown his beer bottle.

    • @henrique-3d
      @henrique-3d 5 년 전 +107

      I run in the streets dude, asphalt at 5:00 am, no excuse

    • @tzermonkey
      @tzermonkey 5 년 전 +49

      Patrick Alaggio Look ahead of you. Survey your path/territory. Develop a “spatial sense.” You’d be surprised how many people can’t connect their path with an obstacle in front of them.

    • @jattalalay
      @jattalalay 5 년 전 +57

      Yeah because there are no pointy objects in the desert.. not to mention poisonous pointy "objects"

    • @freerider7th
      @freerider7th 5 년 전 +27

      Get running sandals like the tarahumara ;)

    • @michalvalta5231
      @michalvalta5231 5 년 전 +58

      Because when we were barefoot, the ground was clear, right? No bushes, no spiky plants, no snakes, no rocks hidden in grass... :D

  • @LEDewey_MD
    @LEDewey_MD 5 년 전 +21

    Great summary of concepts in McDougall's book, "Born to Run". I've discussed and recommended his book to many of my patients.

  • @SargeIzzard
    @SargeIzzard 8 년 전 +819

    We were made to run on dirt and plants, not concrete. Although beach and grass running barefoot is awesome.

    • @scramjet7466
      @scramjet7466 8 년 전 +78

      +Sarge Izzard but dude there are pebbles, thorns, twigs, stems and many other hard things in a jungle

    • @spamcam7981
      @spamcam7981 8 년 전 +25

      +Vampire Volverene Does that stop the animals that live in the jungle? Although to be fair OP didn't mention any jungle ..

    • @scramjet7466
      @scramjet7466 8 년 전 +17

      herbovers have a hard food I don't know how to say it. It feels like wood That part doesn't have sensory veins so yeh. And carnivores have a thich skin under their feet

    • @SargeIzzard
      @SargeIzzard 8 년 전 +9

      Vampire Volverene We evolved without shoes...

    • @szililolabu
      @szililolabu 8 년 전 +45

      +Sarge Izzard a lot of humanity ran on hard packed savannah dirt and beaten tracks and also rocks.

  • @cosmo1kramer
    @cosmo1kramer 10 년 전 +7

    I have been running bare foot on grass since i was a kid with my father in the early mornings, back in India. What an awesome feeling.

  • @adnaanu
    @adnaanu 2 년 전 +12

    Great talk, its also worth mentioning that we sit more that we used and have been doing it from an earlier age. From school to the office to the couch most of our time is spent sitting and it causes our hip flexor to shrink and glutes to atrophy which in turn leads to a more heel striking gait. Also the effect of walking on a hard continuous surface contributes to knee and back pain.

  • @bartmegens
    @bartmegens 5 년 전 +321

    'Are we born to run?' Bruce Springsteen says so, don't ever question The Boss.

    • @blacksheepbear6382
      @blacksheepbear6382 5 년 전

      Bart Megens this should 1000 thumbs up. You win my friend.

    • @craigcotter7476
      @craigcotter7476 5 년 전

      Oh yeah? Well, I did start a fire without a spark, so he was wrong about that.

    • @TheFpCassini
      @TheFpCassini 4 년 전 +3

      he was just referring to tramps like Wendy and himself though...

    • @joellee5863
      @joellee5863 4 년 전 +2

      I only clicked on this video to see if someone had commented that! “Tramps like us, Baby We were born to RUNNN!”

    • @David_a_journeyman_curmudgeon
      @David_a_journeyman_curmudgeon 4 년 전

      This is a win sir.

  • @sophie4636
    @sophie4636 년 전 +8

    Eleven years on from this talk and Courtney Dauwalter is killing the Ultra running community with her amazing wins, leaving men gasping for air in her wake as she playfully and with humble joy runs 100 and even 200 mile runs. She doesn't take herself seriously and is full of joy. This talk was so ahead of its time.

  • @stevejewett5769
    @stevejewett5769 4 년 전 +8

    A lot of focus here in the comments about diet, reasons to run, physical differences, clothing and running gear, etc. I found the team work idea and the success of the Tarahumara to be the takeaway here. There is no "I" in Tarahumara! Thanks CM

  • @edutainment9175
    @edutainment9175 4 년 전 +5

    Chris inspires me. I run everyday. It's ridiculous and crazy to think we are not BORN TO RUN. It's part of our evolution. I am living proof. AND I am 69, I had 2 massive heart attacks, and I am still running everyday. I love it, it's my drug of choice and helps relieve my PTSD for sure.

  • @positivetimeline2023
    @positivetimeline2023 5 년 전 +11

    Love love this guy! His book Born To Run just blew my mind .

  • @blockededited8280
    @blockededited8280 4 년 전 +82

    I only run because it is fun. No watch, no headphones. Just my thoughts, my body, and the road. I care more about having a "good" run than a PR.

    • @Duvdeve
      @Duvdeve 4 년 전 +1

      I allways take my phone with me and put on music while running, but I want to convert to running without my phone and without music but I find it very hard.

    • @blockededited8280
      @blockededited8280 4 년 전

      @@Duvdeve sounds like you are addicted to pop culture. Trust me, take the hp off and look around you while you run. You're brain will supply you with things to think about during the run. Running with hp on is risky anyway.

    • @marcorosas5530
      @marcorosas5530 4 년 전

      Nietflix I like to run with music as well, it’s just me, my thoughts and my music. But I think I will try running without music

    • @Duvdeve
      @Duvdeve 4 년 전 +1

      @@marcorosas5530 I tried it and I ran substantially less which isn't necessarily bad since I think running a lot if not healthy in general. I think I will run without my phone from now on, as I am more relaxed that way and I take deeper breaths even just while walking.

    • @meneither3834
      @meneither3834 3 년 전 +1

      Running with music or while listening to something is very agreeable though.

  • @David12713
    @David12713 10 년 전 +195

    The reason we wear shoes, is because although we are meant to run barefoot, We are NOT meant to run barefoot on surfaces as hard as concrete. We may attain some injury from shoes, but it would be much worse with out them, You also have to take into the account, that in the modern world, there are such things as glass and metal, that we can, and will, cut our feet on if we try to run barefoot in a city. The only safe places would be a beach, or nature trail, etc.

    • @Averagebum21
      @Averagebum21 9 년 전 +7

      Mitchell Musci Although I have always taught forefoot running, the implications of your statement to "Try running with a heel strike on concrete vs soft grass and tell me which one hurts more" could be flawed.
      Most barefoot advocates reason that since running barefoot on hard ground requires forefoot running, that this must be the right way to run.
      But a point nobody else has made is this: Since our ancestors ran mostly on soft ground, a heel-toe gait might actually have been more natural and suited to that terrain.
      So, instead of forefoot landing being the correct way, it could actually be an extreme adaptation to an unnatural terrain.
      I agree our ancestors probably ran over rocks as well, but unlikely ALL the time.
      A better interpretation of all this might be that they ran possibly heel-toe on grass and sand, and forefoot on rock.

    • @NUNU37
      @NUNU37 9 년 전 +21

      Mitchell Musci i don't think heal strike vs forefoot landing is a question of terrain in our ancestors past. But more of a question of desired level of speed. while walking slowly landing heel first is quite natural and the forces generated by heel striking at walking speeds are minimal even on harder surfaces.
      However as speed rises the forces generated by heel striking rise exponentially regardless of surface. Aside from sand almost any other surface would lead to injury quite quickly.if you are heel striking while barefoot.
      The potential for injury while switching to bare foot or minimalist footwear is very real. People need to build up slowly and pay special attention to form a forefoot / mid-foot strike is very important for this style of running. heel striking will almost surely lead to injury.
      Forefoot striking will not on its own prevent injury. If distances or time spent running are not built up gradually it can be quite easy to injure the muscles of the lower leg and foot simply because they are not ready for that type of stress yet.
      If you decide to lift some weights to get in shape you wont load 1000 pounds on a squat bar and give it a go. Why think running should be any different.

    • @metin9704
      @metin9704 5 년 전 +3

      I ran on rocks no biggie

    • @scooobydoo27
      @scooobydoo27 4 년 전

      We wear shoes on tracks and those aren't concrete, they're man-made and were created specifically for running. The point is that shoes undo an important aspect of running - it prevents us from learning correctly. So you might do short distances barefoot on the grass or use a minimalist shoe for short distances. The point is to learn correct technique. You don't have to run barefoot 100% of the time.

    • @seanmulholland7597
      @seanmulholland7597 4 년 전

      No we’d be better off without shoes, not only that but we also ground
      Ourselves with
      The earth..
      Releasing electrons with the earth.. keeping us
      Happy , sane , and healthy

  • @remotegod255
    @remotegod255 6 년 전 +3

    I'm 30, almost 31 and this man's book and philosophy "Born to Run" changed my LIFE and HEALTH for the better. I'm so much happier as a runner, I go out almost every other day (working towards daily), and from starting 6 months ago (I puked after 1/2 mile) I'm now running a pretty quick 4-6 miles of trails! I don't go "full barefoot" but I use a very minimal running shoe, zero-drop with only enough padding to protect from sharp rocks and glass. using a minimalist trail shoe is KEY for me, I could never, ever imagine going back to the clunky, padded "running shoes" I once used

  • @oscarsharkslayer
    @oscarsharkslayer 5 년 전 +2

    Me and my kid tried this philosophy and were amazed how true McDougall is. Skepticism is natural, but you will never cure it without trying it (slowly, and carefully). Thank you

  • @n7titan243
    @n7titan243 5 년 전 +195

    here's a sport where old people are still amazingly good, Rock climbing.

    • @CarrlosCastaneda
      @CarrlosCastaneda 5 년 전 +37

      Something else we were born to do

    • @d.e.b.b5788
      @d.e.b.b5788 5 년 전 +67

      Here's another sport that old people are amazingly good at: Falling off of the sides of mountains.

    • @zain4019
      @zain4019 4 년 전 +2

      D.E.B. B
      :-(

    • @justryd
      @justryd 4 년 전 +6

      And swimming.

    • @EGbean2
      @EGbean2 4 년 전 +8

      Why do you think this is? Because they're so good at hanging on to life? :D

  • @TheMarinadehaan
    @TheMarinadehaan 4 년 전 +4

    Loved the book as well! Changed my life!

  • @theweirdlookingcat8062

    In most of my jobs I always worked on my feet all day every day for over 20 years, now I've taken up running in the last few years I've had no injuries as I believe my body is conditioned to be upright and moving all day long. Many runners I know are really fit but as they have sit down office jobs their bodies find it harder to recover and are more prone to injury.

  • @rlmrlm2491
    @rlmrlm2491 10 년 전 +7

    Honestly? One of the best books I ever read. I read it in December 2013. I finished the book December 12th. That day I started training for the LA Marathon, (I never ran more than 8 miles my whole life) I completed the LA Marathon 2 days ago with a time of 4 hours 35 minutes. We ARE born to run. Yes I did wear shoes. I'm 40 and although I'm sure no shoes is the best way, after 40 years and training 87 days, there was not enough time. BRAVO TO YOU CHRIS MCDOUGALL! AND I THANK YOU!

    • @oakland6564
      @oakland6564 8 년 전

      Took you 4 months to brainstorm that lame comment?

  • @ninjastellar
    @ninjastellar 6 년 전 +20

    "I'm not chasing that guy's antelope" ahahahah 😂 you sir made my day

  • @craigmak
    @craigmak 7 년 전 +101

    I always felt like the problem is pavement. It's too hard and destroys your joints when you run on it.

    • @gangsterwarriorx9393
      @gangsterwarriorx9393 5 년 전 +15

      Weak feet. Poor biomechanics. Quad dominant.

    • @maurizioarrivabene8182
      @maurizioarrivabene8182 4 년 전 +8

      There is no indication for pavement causing arthritis in runners...infact, the joints of runners who run on pavement are healthier than the joints of people who dont run at all

    • @Joao-ur7ey
      @Joao-ur7ey 3 년 전

      More than a year since I started running barefoot on pavement. So far no "destroyed joints". Quite the contrary... My feet and ankles feels way more tough and strong.

    • @Kevin4779
      @Kevin4779 3 년 전

      Honestly allows my springy tendons to fully engage each stride.

  • @aishwaryverma7859
    @aishwaryverma7859 5 년 전 +798

    Johnny sins now a marathon runner...
    Amazing...

    • @gibby7426
      @gibby7426 5 년 전 +3

      aishwary verma HAHAHAHHA

    • @mad_marc2757
      @mad_marc2757 5 년 전 +5

      I thought the same thing when I first saw him!😂

    • @justinly6237
      @justinly6237 5 년 전 +20

      He truly does it all

    • @mar10ssj1
      @mar10ssj1 5 년 전 +13

      He is the modern Renaissance Man.

    • @best2563
      @best2563 5 년 전 +42

      He can be a doctor, astronaut, a pizza delivery guy, teacher all at once. Being a runner is easy peasy for him

  • @carloc352
    @carloc352 4 년 전 +2

    Amazing! This speech is fantastic. Thank you so much.

  • @Chuckaluck78
    @Chuckaluck78 5 년 전 +9

    I’ve been running all my life and the only time I was every hurt was when I ran on pavement. Just run trails and you won’t get hurt. I would be open to trying barefoot running but that’s a non-starter in AZ.

  • @MrSuperdurden
    @MrSuperdurden 5 년 전 +25

    This is such controversial subject matter, and I am by no means an expert, but after years of running and chronically injured (IT band primarily), I made 2 small changes that align with Christopher's feedback and have seen 3 years of injury free running including ultra 100km+ distances. I only run in minimalist shoes (ie. Nike Free, Altra Escalante, to Leguanos and Vibrams and Merrel Trail Gloves). The other part is I always do some minimal barefoot training to adjust my stride to align with a barefoot run which most importantly for me was a high cadence. Even with shoes on, focus on a barefoot stride which is high cadence and more of a midsole strike. For me Christopher's approach was the miracle I needed to keep running, which I do almost daily.

    • @SethRamesh
      @SethRamesh 5 년 전

      Exactly

    • @Daniel-dl6cu
      @Daniel-dl6cu 4 년 전

      @@AEON. What about when you walk? Are we supposed to land on our heels?

  • @peter_smyth
    @peter_smyth 5 년 전 +60

    This talk has made me want to go out and run an antelope to exhaustion and tear its still warm flesh out and eat it.

  • @christopher8220
    @christopher8220 5 년 전 +1

    Brilliant. Loved the story and I loved the delivery!

  • @Pacific-NW-Native
    @Pacific-NW-Native 4 년 전 +2

    I too am in my early 40's and recently got rid of "normal" shoes, going to absolutely minimalist shoes all the time. I'm now free of chronic running injuries, have full used of my toes which were mashed together and had limited range of motion/function as well as less low back pain now. We need to get back to a more natural way of living.

  • @asnsto
    @asnsto 5 년 전 +4

    Hello, people!
    I run only barefoot almost everyday, 4 seasons, but I have to admit that when the winter comes I'm starting to have problems with the footwear. I've used Vibram Five Fingers(with sock and without), Merrel Glove, New Balance Minimus, Aqua-shoes with wool sock, only wool sock(it's perfect on dry snow, in my opinion) and the last winter I've been running with a neoprene 0.5 mm sock (I've tried to run with bare feet too,but it's a slow process). I have to tell you that for me the neoprene sock works exceptionally well. I'm running only trails, not hard surface (asphalt, concrete...) , soil only. Even when sprinting the sock is pretty stable, but with 0.5 is little chilly when the snow melts. It starts to absorb water(because I wear another sock underneath), so I have a plan for this year. I will buy 1 mm neoprene sock, put a wool sock underneath and for the slippery ice-I will use spray glue+sand on the bottom(which method I saw in another video, but for shoes) and let you know what happened.
    In conclusion I think that barefoot runners face hard times when the wet winter comes. So...that's my plan to defeat it.
    I will be glad to hear more ideas for snow and wet cold weather from you.
    Have a great day!

  • @huntergibson9359
    @huntergibson9359 4 년 전 +4

    (mountain and road) cycling, (I only know downhill skiing) skiing, and rock climbing are all sports that can be done at a relatively high level late into life.

  • @rekeembelac1684
    @rekeembelac1684 4 년 전

    The is the first good ted talk I’ve seen, I’ll pay attention to more now

  • @terenceyoung-thetimeisnow

    Excellent talk. I've read the book "Born to Run" and it was great!!

  • @comicsgrinder
    @comicsgrinder 10 년 전 +3

    Christopher McDougall is the real deal. Born to Run is essential reading.

  • @nobodyjr6463
    @nobodyjr6463 4 년 전 +3

    I started running 6 months ago at 24 after 3 kids. Spent too much on running shoes, have been thinking about barefoot running.
    Thank you so much for this awesome information!

    • @mostunique5941
      @mostunique5941 4 년 전

      Mae Pasta get a running coach and sort your form out. Then shoes will just give you that extra spring

  • @ClaudeDiamond
    @ClaudeDiamond 2 년 전

    Brilliant simplicity

  • @markswinhoe8252
    @markswinhoe8252 3 년 전 +1

    Just finished Born to Run, pretty cool hearing the guy talk about it too.

  • @ssent1
    @ssent1 8 년 전 +97

    I've gotten rid of my orthotics, knee pain, and foot pain since I've started barefoot funning.

    • @rrdd8457
      @rrdd8457 8 년 전 +14

      +Lynda Moss lol no you haven't

    • @ssent1
      @ssent1 8 년 전 +23

      Rrdd I'm not making a medical case and I'm certainly not suggesting that anyone should go against their doctor's advice.
      To be clear, the break-in period sucked. I got hit with plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and the list goes on.
      I haven't worn orthotics for five years, and knock on wood, it's all good.

    • @monster762
      @monster762 8 년 전 +2

      +Lynda Moss How long was the break in period? Do you think you perhaps pushed yourself a bit too hard in the early stages?

    • @monster762
      @monster762 8 년 전 +8

      Rrdd Selling? The thing that Nike and all the other shoe giants do. Apparently running injuries increased dramatically when thick cushioned soles were introduced. I'll try to find some stats to back that up but in the meantime, why don't you read Chris McDougall's book "born to run"?

    • @rrdd8457
      @rrdd8457 8 년 전

      monster762 it's one thing to respond to something that wasn't directed to you, it's another cherry pick it to your favor.
      who sells what is irrelevant in the grand scheme of my response.
      "Apparently running injuries increased dramatically when thick cushioned soles were introduced."
      back that up with facts or you're wasting everyone's time. also, if you think running barefoot is better for you, we are done here... just another youtube weekend runner that totals 800meters for a long run. you're also one of those guys that just says "read this book". ah, cringy... let me light my balls on fire.

  • @mypenisisincrediblytinybut6448

    I searched up “born to run” hoping to listen to my favorite Springsteen song, but clicked on this video and now I’m educated

  • @Dapryor
    @Dapryor 9 개월 전 +1

    I run 8 miles a day. It literally saved my life. Trauma destroyed my mental health but running allowed me to find my center.

  • @mementomori5374
    @mementomori5374 4 년 전 +1

    Amazing talk thank you sir

  • @666zerowolf
    @666zerowolf 8 년 전 +3

    great presentation!

  • @fabricioluna2621
    @fabricioluna2621 9 년 전 +7

    No, we are not born to run, we are born to live -- and live well -- and running is a great way of achieving this !!!. Cheers.

  • @Randyfarhi517
    @Randyfarhi517 3 년 전

    I’m impressed with the way he just rattles off names that are so alien to me I would have a hard time pronouncing them and remembering them

  • @kristophercochran98

    I have done track this year and have gotta far, but I learned that when I'm not having fun and I'm mad while running I always hurt myself. The weird part is when in happy and run with friends I can go fast and dont hurt.

  • @zepps88
    @zepps88 5 년 전 +9

    I took this guy's advice and cut my foot on a piece of glass on the sidewalk. Thanks a lot Christopher!

    • @officialhoughtmin
      @officialhoughtmin 3 년 전

      Haha,
      Run with shoes.

    • @ChivasBarcelonaMex
      @ChivasBarcelonaMex 3 년 전

      Run with shoes with minimal stack and thick enough to cover you from glass and such. The greatest runners Tarahumara and Kenyans run barefoot or at the very least a sandal. There's a reason we have rubber tires on our trucks.

  • @solac388
    @solac388 5 년 전 +5

    COMpete and COMpassion. The word COM means together. Which is our true power. Together we combine to complete the task. Well done, sir!

    • @domzbu
      @domzbu 5 년 전

      I’m COMing I’m COMing

  • @michails.maipas814
    @michails.maipas814 3 년 전 +1

    Very good video!! Subtitles very good, and so nice a huge number of running miles in organized races only, register in duv ultra marathons during our lifetime

  • @agu3798
    @agu3798 4 년 전 +1

    I'm a running enthusiast. i also come from a backward tribe that still engage in jhum cultivation. while human performance in running has immensely benefited from science and technology, we have also lost out on a lot of things that makes running fun and make our body better suited for running. i used to run barefoot during my early and mid teens and that helped me a lot.it wasn't track or competitive running though. obsessed with my extreme idea of physical fitness and strength, i regularly trekked through hilly and forested areas on rough unpaved roads. having started doing that from a relatively young age, while also doing it consistently for years, i got really good at barefoot running. my feet also developed surprising tolerance to pain, especially the soles of my feet. there are also tons of scientific study that link walking/running barefoot to a range of health benefits. see "earthing".i definitely noticed a lot of benefits after i decided to go natural and minimize the use of shoes. it got to a point where i was more comfortable in almost every situation without shoes and there was an acute feeling that shoes weighed me down while running or during any physical activity.for a long time flip flops were my footwear of choice for morning runs or any kind of running activity, since the roads in my village are paved;i was simply more used to them, naturally.i still am, though the ruggedness from those days have considerably weakened.the point here is: embrace our roots by going natural as much as we can, tap into the natural side of our potential, and also practice a healthy lifestyle. that also majorly includes food and environment.

  • @cbowman212
    @cbowman212 8 년 전 +8

    Fun theory. The reasoning is too exclusive though: "we're good at distance running, therefore we evolved to chase down animals." Maybe long distance running is just a trait we've acquired by default due to other pressures (tropical climate = sweating; bipedalism = carrying slow-developing babies, etc.).

  • @kevincurry7294
    @kevincurry7294 5 년 전 +25

    Really interesting. My only criticim is that I think it is rather arbitrary that you don't think corn and beans are worth recommending too. All healthy traditional cultures eat a grain and a legume as a large part of their staple diet. High bean consumption is a common factor in all of the blue zones.

    • @szililolabu
      @szililolabu 5 년 전 +5

      So is eating plenty of lard. But they don't tell you that in the books

    • @roberttraverso7352
      @roberttraverso7352 5 년 전 +2

      Actually we only were able to survive as a species when we became hunters and began to eat meat and get the fat we need for our large brain by cracking open bones and eating the nutrient dense and fatty marrow.

    • @roberttraverso7352
      @roberttraverso7352 4 년 전 +2

      @TRUTH&REALITY Right, we were hunter/gatherers long before we became farmers.

  • @hmunoz314
    @hmunoz314 2 년 전

    i would love to just sit for hours with this dude & talk about running and its history & culture

  • @saumitragautam8333
    @saumitragautam8333 5 년 전 +2

    Great video. Let's get running.

  • @LostAnFound
    @LostAnFound 5 년 전 +4

    I do recommend wearing something thin and strong to protect from the chemicals and debris on the modern running course. Get some close-toed Vibram-soled shoes WITHOUT any cushioning.

  • @Ruehh
    @Ruehh 5 년 전 +67

    The Taraumara also have Peyote.

    • @pikiwiki
      @pikiwiki 5 년 전

      they use peyote when running? how do you know?

    • @jessiehermit9503
      @jessiehermit9503 5 년 전 +1

      Tarahumara.

    • @galarichardson5259
      @galarichardson5259 5 년 전 +2

      @@pikiwiki I don't know if they use peyote when running or not, but we just like knowing about who's taking what drugs ;)

    • @Phyto.
      @Phyto. 4 년 전

      No they don't /:

  • @bethwatkins7818
    @bethwatkins7818 8 년 전 +2

    Brilliant video! I've just started wearing minimalist shoes and forefront running because of ITBS in my knee from years of heel striking. There is a lot of confusion out there but I'm sticking with this theory because i NEED to keep running. Hopefully I'll have the confidence to try barefoot soon.....

  • @MikeGloss
    @MikeGloss 5 년 전

    I had chronic IT Band pain and knee pain after a couple iron man events. I spent a year doing yoga a few times a week, which helped a little but didn't resolve the issue. I was wearing minimalist shoes during this recovery period. My runs were all hard anaerobic 185 beats/min 6 min/mile pace. This wasn't working.
    I did two weeks of MAF (maximum aerobic function) Heart Rate training per Phil Maffetone Method w/o any stretching, and IT Band and knee pain are gone. No one ever recommended running more to resolve IT Band issues, but slow aerobic running (9 min/mile, 148 beats/min) seemed to do the trick for me (with 15 min linear warm up / cool down). Now I think I have a stress fracture in my foot... but at least the IT band is resolved.

  • @jonathan-bk4gb
    @jonathan-bk4gb 5 년 전 +21

    love how most " experts" say peak endurance and performance is 25-27 ....... but the world record marathong breakers are over 30 years old... ELIUD KIPCHOGE was 33 when he broke 2:03:00 marathon record.......

    • @gangsterwarriorx9393
      @gangsterwarriorx9393 5 년 전 +4

      Shows you how science can be shitbucket sometimes. Mainly cuz of peer review.🎯

    • @MotorBunnyBDM
      @MotorBunnyBDM 5 년 전

      @@gangsterwarriorx9393 Perhaps the context is purely physical potential. But with long distances plenty of experience helps and wins out in the end.
      'Experts' weren't wrong afterall?

    • @DRourk
      @DRourk 5 년 전 +2

      Indeed. It's asinine to think that we evolved to peak in our 20s. In our society and culture the average person peaks in their 20s only because we live such unhealthy lifestyles. You don't use it you lose it, and the toxins we feed ourselves add up.
      Look to other species. They don't peak in the equivalent of their 20s, they peak approaching middle age and plateau there for most of their adult life.

    • @infoguy1978
      @infoguy1978 5 년 전

      ronin boy- steroids

    • @jonathan-bk4gb
      @jonathan-bk4gb 5 년 전

      @@infoguy1978 my statement still applies ... watch the netflix documentary ( BIGGER FASTER STRONGER) steroids are fine with me

  • @ibrahimtarawally3897
    @ibrahimtarawally3897 5 년 전 +13

    So guys everytime you go out to run, just imagine you're hunting an antelope and you need to eat, so run because your life depends on it.

  • @bobbydreamsforu

    Loved your speech Sir

  • @zm6782
    @zm6782 2 년 전

    Not even a runner just stumbled across this. This guy makes crazy points i never even thought of about human evolution loved it

    • @paulrevere2379
      @paulrevere2379 년 전

      What might seem even more crazy but works is that the way human beings are designed, which is really the issue, his valid running conclusions still fully apply in the recognition of a much younger earth, around 6,000 years old, but his Old Earth mythology does add appeal for a lot of TED audiences and book readers.

  • @08Stella
    @08Stella 10 년 전 +6

    How come Allan Savory is not in the selection of 'The Absolute Best TED talks'??? Shocking! Or did I miss him scrolling down? I hope so!!

  • @VernePhilleas
    @VernePhilleas 5 년 전 +5

    I liked this talk. However, I have superb running shoes and love my shoes!

  • @PaulStringini
    @PaulStringini 4 년 전 +3

    5:56 I gotta think a few heads exploded when you said that.

  • @MusicMonkey
    @MusicMonkey 5 년 전 +2

    Great talk ❗️

  • @michaelgeoghegan8850
    @michaelgeoghegan8850 4 년 전 +4

    There would definitely be an adjustment period as I guess the strains on the muscles and ligaments would bring on the injuries more, therefore I would say going from typical running shoes to low profile running shoes and maybe start taking them off for 10mins a day at 1st and gradually increase that 10mins week by week over the next year and you'll be on the way to more functional movement in your feet ankles and calves there for making you a more efficient and less injury prone athlete. Best of luck if you give it a go but just like long distance running training goes, the same for getting used to running barefoot it will take time or just like over training to much barefoot running to quickly will bring on or carry on injury. Be careful and safe running Everyone 🇮🇪🏅🏅🇮🇪

  • @Spexdance39
    @Spexdance39 9 년 전 +36

    For those of you hung up on the idea of running on a hard surface (asphalt, concrete, etc.) barefoot, there are other ways to achieve a natural running experience using shoes; personally, I have found that zero-drop (stack height is equal in heel and forefoot) shoes promote a healthy running form and provides all of the benefits of literal-barefoot running with added cushioning to protect you from man-made surfaces. Try Altra or Newton running shoes if this interests you. Fortunately I have discovered the wonders of natural running early enough in my life to have had a smooth and injury-free transition into the healthy forefoot and high cadence form imperative of injury-proof running, but in the years I had run before this transition, I suffered from crippling shin splints and stress fractures.

    • @austin3626
      @austin3626 5 년 전 +1

      All i know is i see these kenyan marathon runners running in these super cushioned advanced running shoes.

    • @dteun
      @dteun 5 년 전

      Spencer Small try Joe nimble shoes.. They are amazing

  • @juanjosediazbrito4602

    FSANTASTIC. THANK YOU.

  • @lachie7654
    @lachie7654 5 년 전 +4

    Make sure you listen to James O'Keefe's ted talk on running, I think his research contradicts a lot of Christopher's ideas.

  • @bolo6935
    @bolo6935 5 년 전 +4

    11:33 Nigel doesn't seem to be convinced

  • @eamonshields2754
    @eamonshields2754 4 년 전 +2

    Phenomenally explained

  • @espoirrance
    @espoirrance 2 년 전

    Amazing and compelling speech !

  • @josephshelton6385
    @josephshelton6385 8 년 전 +4

    This is great and all, but what about foot injuries?

  • @Nemesistyx
    @Nemesistyx 6 년 전 +13

    People missed one key fact, We developed clothes based on the environment. If its cold you skinned animals to use their skin/fur to survive and effectively operate. On concrete you need shoes. In a super jagged rock area, you need a shoe. Shoes arnt meant for Natural running. Thats why the military wears a boot, you are in a situation where you cant risk stubbing your toe, cutting your foot or breaking your foot down under the situations present. If you got a decent surface and want to run for your life, By all means run till your heart stops. But you also have to remember we also live where each person is different, Some may need the shoe more for even basic simple areas, vs someone genetically who has the right make up for barefoot running.

    • @roberttraverso7352
      @roberttraverso7352 5 년 전 +1

      @Mtpimenta Funny you should call another man stupid when you can't even construct a sentence properly or spell correctly. At least use Spellcheck. You also missed the point that he was talking about the running style we inherited from our evolutionary ancestors. You should study some Biology and good manners as well before you call someone stupid because you just don't agree with or even understand him.

    • @roberttraverso7352
      @roberttraverso7352 5 년 전 +1

      @Mtpimenta He is talking about evolutionary advantage . He still have these physical advantages and disadvantages. He make no claim that these are more important that intellectual advantages. He also talks about how we evolved with a larger brain which is an overall advantage today. I have studied and taught history and science in college. English is not my first language either but I do use that as an excuse to call someone stupid just because I disagree with his opinion. Learn some manners.

  • @coolcat7131
    @coolcat7131 6 년 전

    This was an eye opener, thax :)

  • @Drewb18c1
    @Drewb18c1 5 년 전 +1

    Not sure why he's not on the big TED stage. This story really is incredible and really impacted a lot of people positively. Perhaps the only questionable thing here is regarding the shoes, but whatever. If you're going to go super minimal or barefoot, do a lot of research, ease into it very slowly and stop if things hurt. For me, I run in Kinvaras which are neutral, responsive and low drop...it's a perfect middle ground.
    He actually forgot to mention one thing, though he started to touch on it, is that humans are literally the best animal on the planet at running long distances. It's pretty cool to think about and is something to be proud of.
    The happiness factor is something I think about all the time when running and I think it's profound. Focusing on running as being something you do for fun and passion makes the whole process so much easier than merely a grueling exercise to burn calories off. I think that's part of the magic of Born to Run - that it helps people find a reason to run for passion. I always recommend to people two things when they say they have trouble running for fun: sign up for a race and read Born to Run.

  • @OriginalPuro
    @OriginalPuro 9 년 전 +45

    I came here because of Vibram Fivefingers, was not disappointed.

  • @MrKorton
    @MrKorton 5 년 전 +9

    Not gonna press play... Bruce Springsteen has already told me that we were born to run :D

  • @jorgbo3909
    @jorgbo3909 년 전

    Chris, you are just awsome, absolute fantastic Video, which you well, Jürgen

  • @shiv_ring
    @shiv_ring 5 년 전

    This makes so much sense.

  • @palecompass3598
    @palecompass3598 5 년 전 +44

    Do the Tarahumara eat much meat? I thought that traditionally they mostly ate corn, beans, and chia seeds.

    • @jdurnal
      @jdurnal 4 년 전 +8

      They ate a ton of chicken livers especially before big runs. Also they sprouted their grains, soaked them and knew how to deactivate the anti nutrients. A HUGE little detail missed in the book. But yes they also had a lot of fermented chia seeds. Research Weston A Price for similar ancient wise diets.

    • @jacobrye3949
      @jacobrye3949 4 년 전 +2

      They ate very little meat and no processed junk, mostly plant based.

  • @OKCKettlebells
    @OKCKettlebells 5 년 전 +2

    The subject of McDougall's book, "Born to Run" (Micah True aka Caballo Blanco) died of a heart attack after an easy 12 mile run. Yes, we are born to run, but probably not in the manner promoted by McDougall.

  • @grant09able
    @grant09able 5 년 전

    Wow this makes so much sense, I currently live in Canada but when I played football in my home country I used my bare feet and I could play for hours without feeling tired whatsoever, I could run for a very long time and it didn't feel like torture. Now I just hate running and it's probably cos of this (or age ).

  • @thedude8526
    @thedude8526 5 년 전 +2

    That's why I mountain bike. Its far easier on the joints but it gives you the similar benefits when it comes to cardio and de-stressing that running does. Plus its just way more fun.

  • @jsaylor525
    @jsaylor525 4 년 전 +13

    Is it truly bare foot running he’s talking about or are we talking vibram 5-finger shoes?