286. Running is BAD for Your Knees - Myth BUSTED | Marathon Running Podcast

In this myth-busting episode, we dive deep into the age-old warning that has haunted runners for decades: "You're going to destroy your knees." We expose the flaw in the common "wear and tear" analogy, explaining why your body isn't a static machine but a dynamic system built to adapt and grow. We put on our lab coats to reveal the groundbreaking science that turns this myth on its head, detailing how running is actually protectivefor long-term joint health. We'll explain how running strengthens your bones via Wolff's Law and how the repetitive impact acts as a vital pump, nourishing avascular cartilage—the sponge-like tissue that cushions your joints. You'll learn the difference between the constant, static load of excess weight (a proven risk factor for arthritis) and the adaptive, dynamic load of running, which builds stronger, more resilient tissue with every step.

We also provide a clear, practical guide for how to run smarter and protect your joints for a lifetime. Learn how to manage impact forces by increasing your cadence (aiming for $\approx 170-180$ steps per minute) and the crucial role of strength training—specifically targeting your glutes and hips—in stabilizing the entire kinetic chain. We address the most common causes of running-related knee pain, explaining that issues like runner's knee are overwhelmingly caused by training errors ("too much, too soon") and muscular imbalances, not a fundamental breakdown of the joint itself. Finally, we explore the vast, unspoken benefits of running, confirming its status as one of the single best activities for boosting your cardiovascular health, metabolic function, and mental well-being.

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