How to Use Your Muscles — or Risk Losing Them (W/ Bonnie Tsui) | How to Be a Better Human | TED
In the TED talk “How to Use Your Muscles — or Risk Losing Them,” journalist and author Bonnie Tsui engages host Chris Duffy in an enlightening exploration of physical strength, emphasizing its importance beyond mere aesthetics. Tsui, who penned On Muscle: The Stuff That Moves Us and Why It Matters, illustrates how muscle health is integral to longevity, cognitive function, and overall well-being. As Duffy shares his struggles with fitness and awkward attempts at surfing, Tsui explains the surprising roles muscles play as endocrine tissues that communicate with our brains, influencing mood and health.
The conversation challenges the stereotype of muscle as solely the domain of bodybuilders, revealing that we all possess untapped potential waiting to be discovered through movement. Tsui advocates for everyone, regardless of age, to incorporate weightlifting into their routines, debunking myths surrounding physical strength. The session concludes with a reminder that engaging in any form of movement—be it swimming, dancing, or playing sports—can significantly enhance one’s quality of life. Ultimately, “How to Use Your Muscles” is a call to action, encouraging viewers to embrace their physical bodies and recognize the strength within them.
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Video “How to Use Your Muscles — or Risk Losing Them (W/ Bonnie Tsui) | How to Be a Better Human | TED” was uploaded on 10/27/2025 to Youtube Channel TED