20 Things You Didn't Know About ... Feet

Have you heard of the International Foot? It's turning 60. We take its measure, and much more.

By Gemma Tarlach
May 8, 2019 5:00 AMDec 13, 2019 9:26 PM
Foot X-ray - Shutterstock
Our foot's large heel bone, stiff arch and short toes allow efficient upright walking. (Credit: Suttha Burawonk/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

1. When Apollo 11 touched down on the moon, could Neil Armstrong have made a “giant leap” if we’d never evolved feet? “One small slither for man” just doesn’t have the same ring to it. In truth, our feet have enabled one of our most impressive, ah, feats.

2. With its big heel bone, short toes and long, stiff arch, the human foot is a defining trait of our genus because it enabled efficient bipedalism: locomotion on two legs.

3. Being bipedal made humans great long-distance walkers and runners while freeing our upper limbs to make and use tools, including weapons. You could say it was a giant leap on the way to becoming Earth’s dominant animals, for better or worse.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.