Tips for Maintaining Balance and Running Long Distances

Why are humans such good distance runners? Scientists say that our many sweat glands, little body hair, arched soles, supple Achilles tendons, slow-twitch muscle fibers, and large, stabilizing buttocks give us this ability. These physiological traits are evolutionary adaptations that enhanced our prehistoric ancestors’ ability to chase animals and overtake them when their prey was exhausted. According to a new study from Trent University, running is more energy-efficient than walking long distances in pursuit of prey.

How do humans maintain balance and an upright posture? The vestibular system and cerebellum help us defy gravity. The vestibular system has five sense organs located in each inner ear. Three semicircular canals sense rotation in all three dimensions: when we nod our heads up and down, shake them from side to side, or twist our necks. The other two sensors detect horizontal linear acceleration, vertical acceleration, and gravity. The vestibular system evolved in jawless animals around 350–400 million years ago.

Proprioception allows us to determine where our body is and how it moves without looking. Mechanosensory neurons in muscles, tendons, and joints also allow us to perceive the force generated by our muscles and the weight of objects we lift. The cerebellum performs all calculations automatically and predictively, essential for maintaining a seemingly effortless balance.