Running in Addition to Walking Helped Shape the Human Foot

Abstract

AbstractBipedal walking is the most common human gait, yet multiple lines of evidence indicate that there was also selection for endurance running in the hominin lineage. To evaluate if and how selection for running influenced the evolution of the human foot, we use functional, comparative, and fossil evidence to assess the three major biomechanical challenges posed to the foot by running versus walking: impact, elastic energy storage, and propulsion. Although human feet unambiguously evolved numerous adaptations for walking, the human foot also has several key derived adaptations for running, especially to store and release elastic energy but also to cope with impacts and to sustain repeated, high, rapid propulsive forces. In addition, some features of the human foot traditionally considered adaptations for walking, especially the longitudinal arch, may play a less important role in walking than commonly assumed but are essential for running. In order to understand the anatomy and function of the unique human foot, it is necessary to consider both walking and running.KeywordsHeel strikeForefoot strikeLoadingFoot mechanicsLongitudinal archBarefootEndurance runningImpactElastic energy storagePropulsion