Ep 178: Are Humans Born To Walk?

Katy Bowman and Jeannette Loram kick this episode off with a conversation about British walking idioms and nature-based language. They are then joined by Mark Sisson, author, former distance runner and founder of the minimal shoe company Peluva. Mark, Katy and Jeannette talk about human evolutionary history, walking, health and Mark’s latest book Born to Walk. They discuss how running has become the iconic fitness activity but Mark explains how most people would be better served by abundant walking—combined with some strength training and a small amount of higher intensity exercise—to create a more nourishing and less physically stressful movement diet.  Katy also has a conversation with Karri Bowen-Poole, founder of Smart Playrooms and one of the Move Your DNA sponsors. Smart Playrooms offer equipment and design services for indoor play and activity spaces. Katy and Karri discuss the ethos behind Smart Playrooms, the design process and Karri offers her genius recommendations for equipment to add to every home. Katy and Karri explain how to plan flexible and adjustable spaces so that your movement and play areas stay interesting and grow with your family. Enhanced Show Notes & Full Transcript Chapters: [00:07:07] - Dynamic Collective 00:08:20 - Introducing Mark Sisson 00:15:50 - Born to Run or Born to Walk? 00:25:45 - Who is this book for? 00:34:40 - The Obligate Runner and tips 00:43:15 - Listener Question brought to you by Venn Design00:51:50 - Interview with Karri Bowen-Poole of Smart Playrooms Books Mentioned:Landmarks by Robert MacfarlaneBorn to Walk by Mark Sisson & Brad Kearns The Primal Blueprint by Mark SissonBorn to Run by Mark McDougall I Know I Should Exercise, But... by Diana Hill & Katy Bowman Connect, Move & LearnJoin Our Newsletter: Movement Colored GlassesTry Katy's Virtual Studio Free for 7 days!Made Possible by Our Dynamic Collective of Wonderful Sponsors:Venn Design, beautiful floor cushions and ball seats that keep you moving at home or at the officeSmart Playrooms, design and products to keep you and your kids engaged and active at homeWildling, minimal footwear for toddlers, kids and adults made from natural materialsCorrect Toes, soft silicone toe spacers that can be worn barefoot or in shoesMovemate, dynamic active standing boards that invite movement and play into your workday, without disrupting your workflowPeluva, Five-toe minimalist sports shoes ideal for higher impact activities. Thoughts/questions email us at [email protected] Voice on the Podcast: Read The Credits  October Retreats 2026