A New York plastic surgeon took to social media to warn his followers that long-distance running accelerates aging.
In a viral TikTok video, Dr. Gerald Imber that the high stress of running could contribute negatively to the condition of the runner’s skin.
A girls cross country team running on a red track at the start of training on an early summer evening. (iStock)
“Have you ever seen a long-distance runner who didn’t have a gaunt old face?” he asked. “That’s what happens to people who run.”
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Imber explained that running a marathon also causes stress on the body: “Your knees go, your ankles go, your back goes.”
“It’s kind of stupid,” he added.
Close up shot of runner shoes. (iStock)
The 82-year-old surgeon with a private plastic surgery practice in Manhattan admitted that “half my patients love me for it and half my patients hate me for it.”
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Despite the doctor’s controversial take on running, he reiterated that there’s nothing wrong with running occasionally.
“It’s perfectly fine to run a little bit every day or run a few miles a few times a week, that’s great,” Imber said. “But low impact or no impact is the best way to get your exercise.”
Male runner runs mountain trail on cliff edge. (iStock)
The viral video, which has 2.4 million views, has sparked debate among runners and non-runners around the world.
“Personal trainer here,” one commenter wrote approvingly. “I totally agree with you.”
“That,” commented one woman. “44 with two hip replacements. I used to run 6 miles a day.”
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Others disagreed, writing, “Running keeps me sane and sober.”
“I love running. It’s therapeutic for me and I feel great after a good run.” wrote one commenter. “I’m addicted to runner’s high. I guess I’ll look old but feel great!”