Running, a fundamental human movement, has been a part of our existence for millions of years. While there’s no definitive “invention” date of running, we can trace its evolution through various historical milestones. Running has just grown and grown over millions of years.
When was running invented?
Data from National Geographic tells us that it was around “two million years ago (we started jogging), according to fossil evidence of some distinctive features of the modern human body.”
A timeline of the history of running
Did Thomas Running invent running?
No, well, not really. He supposedly ‘invented’ running because he supposedly tried to “walk twice”. There’s since been lots of memes around this.
Youtube Video: When was running invented?
Early Humans and Survival
- Bipedalism: The ability to walk and run upright emerged around 7 million years ago, a crucial adaptation for survival in changing environments.
- Hunting and Gathering: Running played a vital role in hunting and gathering, allowing early humans to chase prey and outlast predators.
- Persistence Hunting: Humans’ endurance and ability to run long distances in hot conditions gave them a unique advantage over other predators.
Ancient Civilizations and Running Events
- Tailteann Games (Ireland): Around 1600 BC, these ancient games featured running competitions alongside other athletic events.
- Ancient Greek Olympics: Established in 776 BC, the Olympics included various running events, such as the stadion (short sprint) and the diaulos (double sprint).
- Running as a Messenger: In ancient Greece and Rome, running messengers played a crucial role in communication and delivering urgent messages.
Modern Running: A Global Phenomenon
- 19th Century Revival: The modern Olympic Games in 1896 revived interest in running as a competitive sport.
- Boston Marathon (1897): The world’s oldest annual marathon, the Boston Marathon, helped popularize long-distance running.
- Running Boom (1960s-1970s): The running boom of the 1960s and 1970s, fueled by figures like Bill Bowerman and Steve Prefontaine, made running a mainstream activity.
- Global Expansion: Running has since become a global phenomenon, with millions of people participating in races and training for various distances.
Key Takeaways
- Running is a deeply ingrained human behavior with a long history.
- Its evolution has been shaped by survival needs, cultural practices, and sporting events.
- The modern running boom has made it a popular and accessible activity for people of all ages and fitness levels.
The Evolution of Running Footwear
Parallel to the evolution of running as a sport, running footwear has also undergone significant changes. From bare feet to leather boots to modern-day running shoes, footwear technology has played a crucial role in enhancing performance and reducing injuries.
- Barefoot Running: Early humans likely ran barefoot, adapting to various terrains and conditions.
- Leather Boots: In ancient civilizations, runners often wore leather boots for protection and support.
- Modern Running Shoes: The development of modern running shoes in the 20th century revolutionized the sport, offering cushioning, stability, and improved performance.
Written by Katie McDonald, 25th August 2024, Updated 10th May 2025
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