Born to Run: How Humans Evolved to Outlast Their Prey

In a world increasingly focused on fitness, a recent study sheds light on the evolutionary roots of human endurance. Researchers have found evidence supporting the 'persistence hunting' hypothesis, which suggests humans' ability to run long distances and effectively dissipate heat through sweating played a crucial role in our ancestors' success as hunters. The study, published in May 2024, analyzed ethnographic data from various cultures, confirming that this hunting method was more widespread than previously thought. 'It's probably a lot more ubiquitous than we understood,' says Bruce Winterhalder, a co-author of the study. This discovery not only provides insights into human evolution but also offers a fresh perspective on our physical capabilities and the strategies employed by our ancestors for survival. The findings highlight the importance of understanding our evolutionary past to better appreciate our present-day strengths.