Despite the orthopedic similarities between human and Neanderthals. Like humans Neanderthals also had arched heels and a large to that was in line with the foot. This physiology among other physical traits makes it possible for humans and Neanderthals to walk bipedal. (meet the relatives). Of course this does not mean that Neanderthals had the same foot shape as humans. What would these differences, if any, mean for the Neanderthals endurance while walking or running? According to “Early humans won at running; Neanderthals won at walking” by Lin Edwards the heels of Neanderthals were taller than modern humans. This meant that there was less bounce in their step because having a lower heel stretches the Achilles tendon. Having a lower arch acts as a kind of spring that helps lessen the energy used when running. Therefore, while Neanderthals were able to walk for longer distances then humans. Human heels indicate that humans are better suited for long distance running.
In a treadmill experiment where runners ran for periods of ten minutes at 10mph in order to calculate their oxygen consumption (Edwards). During this time, they also took MRI’s of the feet. Upon reviewing the information, the results indicated that someone with lower heel used less oxygen then someone with a high heel. Despite the Neanderthals inability to effectively run large distances their stocky build and muscle mass allowed them to have an advantage in regards to walking and in activities requiring strength. Which may have been more beneficial due to the fact that Neanderthals lived in colder environments. (Edwards)
Works Cited
Edwards, Lin. "Early Humans Won at Running; Neandertals Won at Walking." Early Humans Won at Running; Neandertals Won at Walking. Phys.org. Web. 10 Feb. 2016.
"Meet Your Relatives." Meet the Relatives. American Museum of Natural History. Web. 10 Feb. 2016.
