Are we born to run? | Christopher McDougall

[@germanrud9904]

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.

[@johnmadore7278]

Acid is evidence there's something deeply diseased with the modern mind.

[@germanrud9904]

@@johnmadore7278 sure thing bud

[@johnmadore7278]

@@germanrud9904 LAUGH IT UP JUICeHEAD

[@germanrud9904]

@@johnmadore7278 i love juice

[@johnmadore7278]

@@germanrud9904 correct

[@ChadZuberAdventures]

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

[@triston319]

@@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]

@@triston319 true

[@colbycalabrese8417]

I love your chanel!

[@KevinMeyerSSK]

I just got injury yesterday lol I am going barefoot Kappa

[@DanielsJTM]

Same here!

[@19Jetta]

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]

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

[@Nekojita972]

Is it bad?

[@grantallen582]

19Jetta i run for fun and im American

[@19Jetta]

Good for you! Me too :)

[@gomarugames6709]

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.

[@48jerrybiker]

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.

[@crookedpaths6612]

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]

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

[@ABESW0RLD]

They obviously carry the babies... Just sayin,

[@briantindall1775]

Lol

[@TheSmithyChannel]

@@AEON. chill bro

[@r_unner_G]

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

[@shayslayer1161]

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

[@Mziff9]

What does it mean to be boxed in? It’s a cross country term?

[@Loppy2345]

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]

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]

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

[@Tomasmoravia]

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]

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]

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

[@thaitopfitness]

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]

@@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]

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

[@michael13419]

@@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]

@@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

[@seanmulholland7597]

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

[@doreenm2160]

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

[@solar0wind]

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]

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

[@TheREALMuad-dib]

Slow down, turbo ;-p long slow miles.

[@noiselord4280]

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.

[@SensSword]

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]

p.s.. I still wear my Vibrams.

[@G4RR3TTJ]

R.I.P. your knees

[@carlosrosales1712]

@@G4RR3TTJ exact opposite actually 😂 running strengthens your knees

[@jorgeenchilada]

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

[@EvanNagao]

This guy lowkey looks like handsome squidward

[@sorrowtooth5494]

🤨

[@chubbabubba1991]

😂😂😂

[@benaston2758]

Lmao

[@pereiraplaza222]

I've never seen such an insult but also a big compliment in the same sentence.

[@rubenpartono]

Jesus I've been wondering who he reminds me of for a couple weeks now, I'm not disappointed a single bit 🤣

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]

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]

@@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]

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]

@@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]

@@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.

[@Green2Tee]

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.

[@David12713]

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]

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]

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]

I ran on rocks no biggie

[@scooobydoo27]

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]

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

[@hellodre]

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!

[@michaelzhao3452]

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.

[@sophie4636]

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.

[@SargeIzzard]

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

[@scramjet7466]

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

[@spamcam7981]

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

[@scramjet7466]

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]

Vampire Volverene We evolved without shoes...

[@szililolabu]

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

[@edutainment9175]

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.

[@cosmo1kramer]

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.

[@stevejewett5769]

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

[@remotegod255]

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

[@fatimaghailan6728]

What is the shoe you use called?

[@patrickalaggio3560]

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

[@henrique-3d]

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

[@tzermonkey]

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]

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

[@freerider7th]

Get running sandals like the tarahumara ;)

[@michalvalta5231]

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

[@aishwaryverma7859]

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

[@gibby7426]

aishwary verma HAHAHAHHA

[@mad_marc2757]

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

[@justinly6237]

He truly does it all

[@mar10ssj1]

He is the modern Renaissance Man.

[@best2563]

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

[@adnaanu]

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.

[@Indasaid]

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

[@bartmegens]

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

[@Goliad_Respector]

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

[@craigcotter7476]

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

[@TheFpCassini]

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

[@Pfpg-t1i]

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]

This is a win sir.

[@Johannah0102]

Before reading 'Born to Run', I used to run and walk 40-80 miles per month and it was sooo hard to achieve that many miles. It felt like a chore always. After reading his book, I effortlessly achieved 110 miles in one month and I felt like I could do so much more. I am so inspired and encouraged to run free and enjoy living to the fullest!

[@MrSuperdurden]

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]

Exactly

[@Daniel-dl6cu]

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

[@LEDewey_MD]

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

[@rlmrlm2491]

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]

Took you 4 months to brainstorm that lame comment?

[@Chuckaluck78]

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.

[@n7titan243]

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

[@CarrlosCastaneda]

Something else we were born to do

[@d.e.b.b5788]

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

[@zain4019]

D.E.B. B :-(

[@justryd]

And swimming.

[@EGbean2]

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

[@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.

[@craigmak]

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

[@gangsterwarriorx9393]

Weak feet. Poor biomechanics. Quad dominant.

[@maurizioarrivabene8182]

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]

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]

Honestly allows my springy tendons to fully engage each stride.

[@asnsto]

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!

[@BrionyGunson]

Thanks for this suggestion! I hadn't thought to wear neoprene socks for barefoot running. Great idea!

[@Spexdance39]

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]

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

[@dteun]

Spencer Small try Joe nimble shoes.. They are amazing

[@oscarsharkslayer]

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

[@Pacific-NW-Native]

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.

[@peter_smyth]

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.

[@VladimirGluten47]

Don't let your dreams be dreams.

[@dericflairmultiverse4952]

damn right

[@cbowman212]

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.).

[@positivetimeline]

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

[@fabricioluna2621]

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.

[@kevincurry7294]

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]

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

[@roberttraverso7352]

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]

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

[@jonathan-bk4gb]

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]

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

[@MotorBunnyBDM]

@@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]

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]

ronin boy- steroids

[@jonathan-bk4gb]

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

[@Nemesistyx]

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]

@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]

@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.

[@solac388]

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

[@domzbu]

I’m COMing I’m COMing

[@Dapryor]

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

[@huntergibson9359]

(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.

[@nobodyjr6463]

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]

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

[@palecompass3598]

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

[@jdurnal]

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]

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

[@comicsgrinder]

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

[@Drewb18c1]

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.

[@Kipchoge475]

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.

[@LostAnFound]

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.

[@ruebuh]

The Taraumara also have Peyote.

[@pikiwiki]

they use peyote when running? how do you know?

[@jessiehermit9503]

Tarahumara.

[@galarichardson5259]

@@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.]

No they don't /:

[@ssent1]

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

[@rrdd8457]

+Lynda Moss lol no you haven't

[@ssent1]

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]

+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]

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]

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.

[@pauldapilot2645]

Barefoot running stresses running on the balls of your feet. Most people don’t run a sub 8 min mile pace. Therefore, trying to run barefoot on the balls of your feet puts a lot of stress on the arcs, ankles, and calf’s, not to mention the possibility of micro fractures in the tiny bones because you no longer have padding to reduce the impact. Those that are capable of a faster pace naturally already run forward on their feet, so they have an easier time transitioning to running barefoot. On the other hand, if you’re slower, beware. When you stand, your weight is balanced on both the ball and heal. If you want to move forward you have to shift the center of pressure forward on the foot. This is done initially by leaning forward. Then all you have to do is put one foot in front of the other. The faster you want to go, the further forward on the foot the center of pressure needs to be. That’s why sprinters only have spikes on the front of the shoe. In aviation, the same basic physics is used to produce lift on a wing. When a wing is slow the center of pressure is further back. As the wing moves faster the pressure moves forward. So if you want to run bearfoot you can. You just need to work up to it slowly, with the right technique. You can’t run heal-toe at a 6 min mile pace and expect not to injure yourself. You also can’t run on the balls of your feet at a 10 min mile pace and not injure yourself.

[@marco29uk7]

We work together better than anything else.

[@ninjastellar]

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

[@AlexKanal11]

we are supposed to be running on our toes. shoes makes you run on your heels which is bad for your knees and it doesnt matter if you have running shoes. Try running inside your home on your toes first and then on your heels. you will notice the obvious difference of sound impact and you will see why running on your heels is damaging to the knees. Anyone that runs barefoot will always automaticly start running on their toes.

[@type3gaming851]

Yeah it is true man. In childhood I used to run on toes and I remember seeing someone running on heels and I wondered if I was running wrong all this time.Now I know my running was natural.

[@gma9476]

that's true. I changed my running form, and my knees paint gone.. and minimalis shoes felt better after my form changed

[@AlexKanal11]

@@gma9476 if you watch usain bolt and all the other sprinters next to him in slowmotion, u will see they also run on their toes

[@endtimes6869]

Not the toes, the ball. Run on your balls (of your feet).

[@mr98athletics]

I'm quite a good 1500m athlete from Manchester, one of the best in England and I always have worn shoes and. Trainers yet never been injured, look at little kids. They never get injured..... Why because they are running around all the time which prevents muscles getting weak and there for allowing you to get hurt. So if you sit in an office all day then go running its a shock to your body pluss the muscles will weaken if you do not do exercise for the legs

[@ibandribew]

But unlike one of these Indians, you can't run over 400 miles, which they do barefoot while drinking corn beer.

[@19Jetta]

I don't think he is saying all shoes are bad but many shoes do over-control the foot's natural movement. And you cannot argue that the people who collect gold medals like stickers--the Kenyans--spend their entire childhood running high volumes (as you say) but also doing that running barefoot.

[@mr98athletics]

+Andrew Combs yeah you are right. But I can run like 4:10 for a mile and 52 for 400m they can't.

[@savic101]

ryan babcock they can run 435 miles in 2 days, I bet my life the 20 year olds can run a 4:10

[@trequor]

Childen dont get injured as easily simply because they weigh less. It's significantly less stress on the entire system

[@bribri5458]

Simple, get outside, enjoy the outdoors, and don't be stuck in front of a screen. Running is such a great way to get away from it all and allows you to just be free for 15-60 minutes at a time without worrying about anything else. Kind of what humans have always done and what relates us to the world the most. Along with the added benefits of physical illness reduction, generally being healthy and it's ability to help with mental health (by releasing endorphin's such as serotonin etc.) it's such a simple but amazing thing. i think as long as people don't feel pressure to do this or hit that target, feel that you have to push yourself to the limit or look the coolest and just went out and did it for the fun of it and to get some fresh air people would do it more. Just got to drop the two things that almost make modern day society difficult to live in (image and consumerism) and it truly is something beneficial and enjoyable

[@ibrahimtarawally3897]

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.

[@frederikandersen8402]

I’ll try that lol

[@ibrahimtarawally3897]

@@frederikandersen8402 Or better yet you're getting chased by a fking Lion🤣 you better get those legs moving

[@lachie7654]

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

[@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

[@Kevin-xs8xn]

some notes Tarahumara - famous running tribe -unchanged for last 400 years -when the Spanish came, they hid in canyons (instead of being decimated like Aztecs and Incans) -they’re completely free of modern illness Arguably humans are DESIGNED for long-distance running, evidence: -women sprinters are much slower than male counterparts; but gender gap is MUCH smaller in long-distance, in ultra marathons top women are almost equal -also rare in long-distance running: 60-yos as fast as, if not faster than, 18-yos -humans are “hunting pack animal” - need women, elders to run long-distances too (so they’re not left behind) -we sweat really well, can run far on a hot day -our bodies are ideal for long distance running (long torso, short bipedal legs, head that can rotate side to side while running to watch for predators, obstacles) more notes: www.kevinhabits.com/ted/

[@IExpectedBSJustNotThisMuchBS]

I think there's a bigger message here about community and greed. I can't imagine that will go over well for the people who say, "Keep your hands off of my money" and don't appreciate all the ways that collaboration and cooperation makes their lives possible today.

[@andersbodin1551]

Powerlifting is a sports where 75 year olds can perform better then teenagers, if they are un injured.

[@velvetguitar95]

I thought this video was going to be about why Human's are being predisposed to desire to leave home for somewhere else. In other words, to run from their problems, from themselves.

[@08Stella]

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!!

[@redddbaron]

Agreed.

[@antonsakovich3687]

My favourite kind of running is orienteering. You run out in the woods, mostly off-road, and see the places that you wouldn't see otherwise. It is also a very inclusive sport. Happy running!

[@ziggyplay]

despite the physiological aspect that is a bit mislead (we are not designed for long periods of running or stress, and it is not healthy at all) it is a very nice message (marketing, consumerism, packing, and so on) and something we should consider in many ways in our society.

[@zepps88]

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

[@officialhoughtmin]

Haha, Run with shoes.

[@ChivasBarcelonaMex]

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.

[@jsaylor525]

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

[@vidareggum6118]

Truly barefoot.

[@EchoSigma6]

I just watched another Ted Talks video featuring a cardiologist, he is saying the opposite. Moderate cardio is safer and mentioned Micah True, an American runner that was staying and running with same tribe. Micah unfortunately died while running there, autopsy found that he had a damaged heart consistent with ultra marathon runners. It appears that what is suggested is a moderate jogging pace at 6 mph for 30 minutes no more than 3 times per week. Most regular runners will disagree with this and it is hard to argue with a very fit community but for most of us that do not fall within this elite class of athletes, we may be better off with moderation.

[@vihrenkostadino]

I think you might be missing the point. Those examples about the tribe running ultramarathon distances is by no means prescribed as healthy. Running is healthy in moderation, like everything else, and done properly-i.e with proper form, which tends to be greatly hindered by modern footwear. Barefoot running(and/or in minimal footwear) encourages proper technique on the other hand. :)

[@clitaiulian4497]

@@vihrenkostadino I think running with zero drop is actually what’s needed for a correct running form, not necessarily barefoot imho.

[@Randyfarhi517]

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

[@thedude8526]

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.

[@OriginalPuro]

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

[@OKCKettlebells]

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.

[@terenceyoung-thetimeisnow]

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

[@CreativeCat333]

Thanks!

[@heatherwhatever7714]

When I worked parking cars I sometimes had to check a park and then get in and take it farther because my depth perception is off. My boss asked if I crawled. I said no. My Mom says I just got up and ran and fell down and ran and feel down. I’m still running. It’s bliss.

[@cookseywrko]

Huh? WTF are you saying?

[@margotrosendorn6371]

13:05 I'm a hiker, not a runner, but I have a similar saying. "The one thing I have faith in is that my legs will get me there, and my boots never slip."

[@VernePhilleas]

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

[@appa609]

Barefoot running: a really bad idea for people who live in places where it's very hot or slightly cold or the ground is unclean. Wanna talk about injuries? Try pulling a bent rusty nail out of your midfoot.

[@strickstang85]

Ouch

[@ldean8360]

Try getting your shoe off when its nailed to your foot. Been there done that. Shoes help but I've had plenty of nails and thorns make it through my shoes.

[@andreoosthuizen2147]

Try opening your eyes and looking where you run

[@yankee2666]

I doubt if he's referring to trail running, which is what I do. I recently bought a couple pair of Lone Peak Altras 3.5. They're designed for trail running, and so far they've proven better than any running show I've ever used.

[@mariomejia5877]

Go to Mexico and buy some huaraches. Look where you run. You will be alright!

[@helicart]

McDougall isn't exhaustive in his knowledge: - this tribe has had genetics for skeletons less ideal for running naturally deselected. Western cultures haven't because we haven't a history of relying on running for survival. The height and skeletal structures of these people do not vary as much as people in the rest of the world. - THey are shorter in general, and this gives a great advantage in avoiding injuries due to much lighter bodyweight compared to taller runners. Taller runners in general have more injuries. - they live a very active outdoors life and condition their feet from toddler age to bare ground walking and running. It is foolhardy for westerners to emulate these people later in life when joint and skin structure is less adaptive. - Their diet and lifestyle has been lower in atherosclerotic foods for generations. Diet plays an extremely important role in foot and other lower limb pathologies. - These people do not sit for multiple hours a day or play nasty contact sports, as is the habit in the west, and therefore do not develop the same spine and lower limb joint injuries. Often it is not running that causes injuries, but it stirs injuries acquired otherwise.

[@zm6782]

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

[@paulrevere2379]

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.

[@ropersix]

I've done some barefoot running, after reading "Born to Run," and taking a clinic with Barefoot Ted. But I've gone back to shoes due to the convenience. And I can count on one hand the number of times I've suffered an injury from running in shoes (all of them from doing sprint intervals/speed work). The key is to listen to your body, and don't push things too much. You're not actually hunting gazelles, so there's no need to (there's food waiting for you at home).

[@leenasawdekar9339]

Have you tried barefoot shoes?

[@ropersix]

@@leenasawdekar9339 In the four years since I wrote the comment, I have been running a little bit in minimal, zero drop shoes. It's a good compromise for me, and works as an occasional "cross training" for my feet, since I do a lot of miles on more regular shoes most of the time.

[@TheMarinadehaan]

Loved the book as well! Changed my life!

[@rolefoga]

As much as I see some value in the running down prey theory, I think it happened but was not as prominent in our evolution as he seems to believe. I think it is a case of someone who has a strong subject of interest who overestimates it's importance in the world out of their passion for that subject. Again, IMHO.

[@dantosinferne]

i donno, we have all the attributes of a species built for endurance running. sweat, minimal hair, long legs, large glutes... not sure why we'd have evolved all those traits if we didn't use them to acquire food. which means persistence hunting literally shaped us to be who we are. pretty important, especially when we're faced with so many illnesses caused by lack of exercise or injuries caused from poor form. you don't see those kinds of diseases in sloths or turtles. the history of our evolution is pretty dang important to solving modern problems. people still hunt that way today, too, and it's already pretty well-accepted that early man was nomadic. if anything i think he's underselling it....

[@michaelgeoghegan8850]

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 🇮🇪🏅🏅🇮🇪

[@mywifesboyfriendisfire]

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]

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.

[@mywifesboyfriendisfire]

@@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]

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]

@@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]

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

[@hmunoz314]

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

[@TsionY]

The presented hypothesis is thought provoking and the speaker ties the concepts very well, but comments about Derartu are not accurate. Athlete Derartu Tulu (or according to the speaker, the under under dog/the poor Ethiopian woman) is a two time 10k Olympic Gold medalist and a renowned philanthropist. She was Africa's first black female athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in 1992. Her legacy spans over 2 decades and she's still going strong! Just last week, she became the recipient of Africa Impact award from the Mayor of Washington DC. I understand the speaker is trying to make a point and that the scope of his TED talk is far beyond Derartu, but I found his assumptions about her quiet misleading.

[@georgeclooney1293]

exactly. It really annoys me when these ted speakers are exaggerating and dramatizing facts in order to make their points. Derartu Tulu is a legend

[@GNP999]

the tarahumara did not run on pavement Chris. We do. maybe this is why we should wear shoes. what do you think

[@trequor]

GNP999 How soft do you think canyon floors are...?

[@briandawsonii4451]

I run everyday and I haven’t had an injury. I run in mid day and people tell me it’s “too hot” and I’m like how.

[@joshuagutang3511]

Brown skin people can run under the sun. My skin is Brown so it helps me to absorb its heat

[@davidzahry]

When looking at primitive / native man untouched by modern man the best resource out there BY FAR is "Nutrition & Physical Degeneration" by Weston A Price. He showed that we thrive on a wide variety of different diets depending where in the world we were located. Eskimos 80 to 90% flesh foods, 10% plant foods - 0% disease Inland Aboriginals of Austraila 80 to 90% plant foods, 10% flesh foods - 0% disease Both of these peoples experienced SEVERE effects whenever they got access to modern mans food. My point is this. When looking at what creates a healthy human there is a priority list 1. Diet 2.Quiet (sleep, relaxation) 3. Movement aka EAT - SLEEP - MOVE You can't do any movement properly unless they first two are properly taken care of and in modern day society we've got a lot of work to do to turn around the system so that it is conducive to healthy living in the areas of Diet and Quiet. There is no reason for the extreme amounts of processed sugar in the markets or the extreme amounts of toxins we're spraying or anything of this nature. Some names to look into for those serious about turning the health of the human race around Geoff Lawton Paul Chek Weston A Price Francis Pottenger Enough dogmatic thinking. We're going to need to be very adaptable in the coming years and do our best to improve the health of the environments in which we live.

[@MikeGloss]

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.

[@benjamingruder4875]

I recently discovered that I run better and my hips feel looser when I use cleats than normal running shoes. It's because 1) The cleat (with its many laces) conforms to the foot much better so there is no sloshing of the foot (and the resulting inefficiency and muscle strain), and 2) The cleat has a zero heel rise. This means the spine and the hips can be in a neutral position because the calves are allowed to extend the way they were designed to. And they have cushioning, which I like, though it might not be ideal for purists.

[@kittimcconnell2633]

It's scavengers that develop incredible intelligence, like ravens, coyote, & humans. Bone pile evidence shows a carnivore's tooth mark on the prey's bone, followed by a stone tool mark. We learned to wait out the carnivores and glean the marrow, before it went bad. Takes a lot of brainpower to have this level of patience and comprehension of other creature's behaviors. Regardless, gathering is what gave us 90% of our diet throughout history, and that is mostly plants!