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Grant Kahler Bipedalism The evolution of bipedalism for the early hominids
was merely an adaptation to the newfound lifestyle that early man began to lead.
No longer was the body adapting to better climbing and life in the trees as this
species was slowly becoming a hunting and gathering population.
One of the main
reasons for this change is the conservation of energy. As these hominids began
to spend much of their day on foot in search for food, this bipedal form of
walking was adapted as it uses much less energy than the creatures that walk on
all fours.
The mechanics of bipedal movement was simply a more energy efficient
act, but at the same time, this posture decreased the direct exposure to the
sun, keeping the individual cooler, and ultimately saving even more energy.
Also, as an advantage to hunting and gathering, hominids were now tall and could
reach things and have a better and taller view of the surroundings. This
provided a huge advantage over the predators of their time.
Two additional
advantages of bipedal locomotion is the allowance of two limbs whose purpose was
solely to carry or transport possessions.
Whether this is food or wood or whatever it may have been, hominids could now carry just about anything for long
distances. This freedom of the arms and hands also allowed an easier and better
solution to taking care of the young. All of these reasons show the advantages
of bipedalism.
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