The Stronger Stride Podcast
227. Will Running Ruin My Knees or Make Them Healthier? (send this to anyone who told you that running is bad for you)
36m
227. Will Running Ruin My Knees or Make Them Healthier? (send this to anyone who told you that running is bad for you)
Today we dive into one of the most persistent myths in the running world: “Running destroys your knees.”
In this episode, Lydia breaks down the latest research on running, joint health, and long-term wellbeing, and the findings might surprise you.
Drawing from recent systematic reviews and large population studies, Lydia explains why running does not cause knee or hip osteoarthritis, why recreational runners actually have lower rates of OA, and how even small amounts of running can dramatically improve overall health. From cardiovascular and cancer mortality to mental health and weight management, the evidence is clear: running is one of the most powerful health tools we have.
We discuss:
- Why running doesn’t “wear out” your joints
- The real evidence based reasons why people get osteoarthritis
- How little running you actually need for major health benefits
- The link between running, body composition, and metabolic health
- Mental health impacts: mood, confidence, resilience
- Why challenging the “running is bad for your knees” narrative matters
- The surprising longevity benefits seen in recreational runners
If you’ve ever been told to avoid running to “save your knees,” or if you work with runners who fear arthritis, this episode will change the conversation. Clear, practical, and grounded in evidence, this is your guide to understanding running as a true health enhancer.
References:Luke Nelson Podcast: https://www.healthhp.com.au/the-rehab-runway/episode-1-running-arthritis
Papers discussed:
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s40798-024-00692-x?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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TSSP x
