Conor Heffernan

Dr. Conor Heffernan, a lecturer at Ulster University and author on the history of physical culture, takes us on an enlightening journey through the ages of exercise. He reveals how fitness practices date back to ancient civilizations, from Egyptians testing their rulers' stamina to Greeks blending physical training with philosophy. Conor discusses timeless principles that remain relevant today and shares insights on the evolution of fitness from military roots to modern-day enjoyment, emphasizing the importance of community in strength training.

Dr. Conor Heffernan, a sports historian and author of When Fitness Went Global, traces how 19th-century systems standardized exercise around the world. He unpacks early fitness spectacles, marketing playbooks that persist today, the rise of a global body ideal, and how equipment and specialization shaped modern training. The conversation highlights why historical perspective matters for current practices.

Join Conor Heffernan, a professor at Ulster University and author specializing in the evolution of fitness, as he dives into the fascinating history of the fitness industry. Discover how the 19th century, influenced by Napoleon and industrialization, paved the way for modern training practices. Heffernan shares wild early fitness claims, the emergence of competitions, and the role of mass media in democratizing fitness. With insights into historical equipment and the shift from natural movement to structured training, this conversation is a treasure trove for history and fitness buffs alike!

Dr Conor Heffernan, historian of physical culture and author of When Fitness Went Global, traces how exercise ideas and marketing changed over time. He unpacks shifting bodybuilding standards, the natty-or-not debate, and the move from magazines to social media. Short takes on myths, deception in fitness commerce, and why knowing history helps navigate today’s info overload.

Join Conor Heffernan, a PhD in sports history, and Juan Carlos Casano, a biochemist and bodybuilding historian, as they dive into the dark side of bodybuilding. They reveal unsettling mortality trends linked to performance-enhancing drugs and explore the cultural norms that have shaped the sport. Discussion touches on the motivations behind bodybuilding, the impact of social media, and the need for better athlete welfare. The conversation advocates for transparency and a cultural shift in how bodybuilding is viewed and practiced.