What happens when you study people who have spent decades consistently running marathons?

In this episode, we sit down with researcher and multi marathoner Leo Lundy to explore what endurance athletes can teach us about healthy aging, longevity, and lifelong performance.

Drawing from his PhD research on multi marathoners around the world, Leo shares insights into cardiovascular fitness, VO₂ max, all cause mortality, cognitive performance, mental health, and the long term effects of sustained endurance training.

The conversation examines why regular physical activity may help slow age-related decline, how motivation evolves across the lifespan, and what separates successful aging from simply getting older. Leo also discusses important vulnerabilities within endurance communities, including injury risk, painkiller use, mental health challenges, and the importance of ongoing health screening.

Whether you're an athlete, coach, practitioner, or simply interested in extending your healthspan, this episode offers a fascinating look at what decades of consistent movement can teach us about living and aging well.

Interested in learning more from leading experts in endurance performance and healthy aging? Join the HIIT Science email list for the latest research, podcast episodes, and educational opportunities.

Today’s speakers:

Prof Paul Laursen https://www.paullaursen.com/
Leo Lundy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-lundy-5509501a2/

https://multimarathon.research.st/