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A plastic surgeon from New York took to social media to warn followers that long-distance running accelerates aging.
In a viral TikTok video, Dr. Gerald Imber said high impact nature of running could be negatively contributing to the condition of runner’s skin.
![A girls cross country team running on a red track at the start of practice on a early summer evening.](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2021/02/640/320/High-School-Sports-iStock.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
A girls cross country team running on a red track at the start of practice on a 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 marathon running also causes stress on the body,”Your knees go, your ankles go, your back goes.”
“It’s kind of dumb,” he added.
![Close up shot of runner's shoes.](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2020/06/640/320/iStock-1148822167.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Close up shot of runner’s shoes. (iStock)
The 82-year-old surgeon with a private plastic surgeon 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 is nothing wrong with running occasionally.
“It’s perfectly fine to run a little bit every day or running a couple of miles a few times every week, that’s terrific.” Imber said. “But low impact or no impact is the best way to get your exercise.”
![Male runner running mountain trail on edge of cliff.](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2021/04/640/320/iStock-1189895666.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Male runner running mountain trail on edge of cliff. (iStock)
The viral video, which has 2.4 million views, has sparked debate from runners and non-runners around the globe.
“Personal trainer here,” one commenter wrote in agreement. “I completely agree with you.”
“This,” a woman commented. “44 with two hip replacements. I used to run 6 miles per 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 amazing after a good run.” one commenter wrote. “I’m addicted to the runner’s high. I guess I’ll look old but feel great!”