Born to Sweat: The New Science of Heat, Health, and Performance, Featuring Bill Gifford | A Vail Health Learning Lab
Born to Sweat: The New Science of Heat, Health, and Performance, Featuring Bill Gifford
Vail Health Learning Lab: July 9, 2026
Join us as we welcome bestselling author and science journalist Bill Gifford for a provocative talk based on his new book Hotwired, where he challenges what we think we know about heat, discomfort, and human performance. Bill will share how heat can make us healthier, stronger, more resilient, and even happier.
In this program, you’ll discover how practices like sauna and heat adaptation can boost longevity, mental health, and physical performance, and why short-term discomfort may be one of our most underused tools for enhancing long-term well-being. We were born to sweat. Come find out why it makes us stronger.
After the talk, stay to connect with our team and explore what Vail Health’s Behavioral Health Innovation Center, Healthspan programs, and local providers have to offer.
Light refreshments will be served.
Thursday, July 9, 2026
9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Vail Christian High School
31621 US Highway 6, Edwards, CO 81632
RSVPs are also accepted at Events@VailHealth.org or (970) 569-7766.
This event is presented in partnership with Vail Valley Partnership and hosted by Vail Christian High School. The Learning Lab series is generously sponsored by Pat and Tony McMunn.
About Our Speaker
Bill Gifford
Bill Gifford is a science writer specializing in health and longevity, skilled at translating complicated scientific concepts and breakthroughs for lay audiences. He has also delved into the worlds of big-wave surfing, Alpine ski racing, and BASE jumping—among other lifespan-shortening pursuits—for publications including Outside, Bloomberg Businessweek, Wired, Scientific American, and Men’s Health. He is co-author of Outlive, a #1 New York Times bestseller that has sold more than two million copies.
Gifford’s latest book, Hotwired, explores the emerging science around heat exposure and health. A native of Washington, D.C., he lives with his family in Salt Lake City, where he tries to play outside as often as possible.
