Doctor warns running may age you faster; suggests this low-impact exercise that offers the same benefits

Does running really age your face? A viral TikTok sparks the running vs cycling debate — here’s what experts say. (Image: Pexels)

There’s always been a debate about running vs cycling, which was taken a step further when a NYC-based plastic surgeon, in his now-viral video with over 12 million views, claimed that running long distances for years can hasten the ageing process, affecting everything from your joints to your jawline.

In a recent TikTok video, Dr Gerald Imber said that while running may be a great exercise, it hurts your knees, ankles, and hips, and makes your skin and face sag. “On top of it all, you’re speeding up the fact that you’re going to get shorter from the constant pounding. That’s a pretty high price,” he added.

Running is one of the most common forms of exercise. It is simple, inexpensive, and suitable for both genders across all age groups. It has several benefits, including improved cardiac health, weight management, bone and joint health, and increased lifespan, among others.

For Imber, however, running not only places undue stress on the body but also raises the risk of injury and leaves visible effects on the face. He suggested a better exercise that offers similar benefits without the negative impact.

Also Read: Fitness tips: Cycling, running, strength training are best exercises to boost longevity, mental health

In another video, he asked, “Have you ever seen a long-distance, long-time runner that didn’t have a gaunt, old face? That’s what happens.” He went on to suggest, “Why don’t you just get on a bike and forget about running?”

Cycling is a low-impact exercise that’s good for people of all ages. It strengthens your heart, lungs, and muscles, supports healthy joints, and can lower the risk of knee problems as you get older. It also benefits your brain by protecting against dementia, sharpening memory, and improving mood. On top of that, it helps with balance and coordination, which reduces the chance of falls, especially in older adults.

The internet reacted to the video, with some joking that they can now happily give up running. “Who am I to go against doctor’s orders? No running for me,” one user commented. Another joked that he could continue being lazy. However, many said they had been running long distance for several decades without any negative repercussions.

Also Read: Running coach shares expert tips for correcting your form and reducing injuries

Experts, though, say that Imber may not be entirely incorrect, as excessive running may not be good for your face and body. It makes you shed body fat everywhere, giving you a thinner appearance. Harmful UV rays also add to the damage and speed up the ageing process.

Later, Imber added that moderate running may be OK. “It’s perfectly fine to run a little bit every day or run a couple of miles a few times a week. But no-impact or low-impact aerobics is really the way to get your exercise,” he said.

FAQs on Benefits of Running vs Cycling:

1. What are the benefits of running?
- Running improves cardiac health, helps with weight management, enhances bone and joint health, and can increase lifespan. It is simple, inexpensive, and suitable for all ages and genders.

2. What are the benefits of cycling?
- Cycling is a low-impact exercise that strengthens the heart, lungs, and muscles, supports healthy joints, and reduces the risk of knee problems as you age. It also benefits the brain by protecting against dementia, sharpening memory, and improving mood. Additionally, it enhances balance and coordination, lowering the risk of falls in older adults.

3. Is running harmful to the body?
- Excessive running can place undue stress on the knees, ankles, and hips, and may cause the skin and face to sag. It can also lead to a thinner appearance due to the shedding of body fat and may accelerate ageing due to harmful UV rays.

4. Is moderate running safe?
- Moderate running is generally considered safe. Running a little bit every day or a few miles a few times a week is fine. However, low-impact exercises are recommended for reducing stress on the body.

5. Why might someone choose cycling over running?
- Cycling is a low-impact exercise that provides similar benefits to running without the associated stress on the body. It is suitable for all ages and can help with overall fitness, joint health, and mental well-being.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.