Running wasn’t invented by Thomas Running in 1747—or by anyone else, for that matter. As one of humanity’s most fundamental movements, running evolved over millions of years as our ancestors adapted to their environment.
From persistence hunting on the African savanna to modern marathon races through city streets, running has been woven into the fabric of human existence since before recorded history.
This comprehensive guide explores the fascinating evolution and rich history of running, from our earliest bipedal ancestors to today’s high-tech training methods and global racing events.
We’ll examine scientific evidence about how and why humans evolved to run, trace running’s development through ancient civilizations, and explore how this natural movement transformed into both competitive sport and popular fitness activity.
Key Takeaways
- 🏃♂️ Born to Run: Running isn’t something we invented; it’s built into us, part of our DNA from way back when.
- 🍖 Survival Skill: Our ancestors used running to hunt for food and stay safe from danger. Talk about a workout with a purpose!
- 🥇 Ancient Olympics: Running was a big deal in the first Olympics, proving it’s been a sport for a long, long time.
- 🏟️ The First Race: The “stade” in ancient Greece was the original race – a sprint across a stadium. Simple but epic!
- 🤔 No “Invention” Needed: Forget about someone named Thomas “inventing” it. Running is as natural as walking (just faster!).
- 🌎 Global Sport: From ancient times to today, running connects people worldwide, whether it’s for fun, fitness, or competition.
The Thomas Running Myth: Debunking the Internet Meme
If you’ve searched “when was running invented,” you’ve likely encountered the humorous internet meme claiming that “running was invented by Thomas Running in 1747 when he tried to walk twice at the same time.”
This tongue-in-cheek origin story is pure fiction—there was no historical figure named Thomas Running who “invented” running, nor was running suddenly discovered in the 18th century.
Similar joke formats claim “Joshua Jogging invented jogging when he tried to run slowly” or attribute other fundamental human activities to fictional inventors. These memes playfully highlight an important truth: running isn’t an invention at all, but rather an innate biological capability that evolved naturally with human development.
The reality is far more fascinating than the meme. Humans have been running for millions of years—running is literally built into our anatomy and physiology through evolutionary adaptations that make us remarkably effective endurance runners compared to other primates. Rather than being invented in a moment, running capabilities evolved gradually through natural selection as our ancestors needed to travel distances, hunt prey, and escape predators.
Born to Run: How Humans Evolved for Endurance
Evolutionary biologists and anthropologists have identified numerous physical adaptations that specifically equip humans for endurance running—features that distinguish us from our closest primate relatives and suggest running played a crucial role in our species’ success.
Far from being a modern invention, these adaptations emerged over millions of years of human evolution.
As evolutionary biologists studying human locomotion note: “Running isn’t something we invented; it’s built into us, part of our DNA from way back when.”
Evolutionary Adaptations for Running: From Survival to Sport
Human bodies show remarkable specializations for endurance running:
Achilles tendon: This long, elastic tendon acts like a spring, storing and releasing energy with each stride. Our closest primate relatives lack this specialized structure.
Large gluteal muscles: Humans have significantly larger gluteal muscles than other primates. These muscles stabilize our trunks during running and provide powerful propulsion.
Nuchal ligament: This specialized neck ligament helps stabilize the head during the bouncing motion of running—a feature shared with other running animals but absent in non-running primates.
Specialized cooling system: Humans have an exceptional ability to dissipate heat through sweating, allowing sustained exertion without overheating. Our relatively hairless bodies and millions of sweat glands make us one of the most efficient cooling mammals.
Shorter toes and arched feet: Our foot structure provides natural spring and stability during running, unlike the longer, grasping toes of other primates.
Narrow waist and shoulders that rotate independently of the head: This allows for counter-rotation of the upper body while running, improving balance and efficiency.
Humans evolved as exceptional distance runners, developing physical traits that distinguish us from other primates. These adaptations didn’t appear overnight but evolved over millions of years through natural selection.
Persistence Hunting: Running for Survival
Early humans used persistence hunting—chasing prey to exhaustion—as a crucial survival strategy. Unlike predators relying on short bursts of speed, humans could maintain moderate pace over long distances, literally running animals to exhaustion.
While most mammals must stop running to pant and cool down, humans can continue running while cooling through sweating. Archaeological and anthropological evidence supports this theory:
Some modern hunter-gatherer societies, like the Kalahari Bushmen, still practice forms of persistence hunting.
Studies of human physiology show we can maintain moderate running speeds for remarkable durations, especially in warm conditions where other mammals overheat.
The timing of running-specific adaptations in human fossil records correlates with increased hunting success.
Dr. Daniel Lieberman, a Harvard evolutionary biologist and leading researcher in this field, explains: “Humans are terrible sprinters, but we’re exceptional endurance runners. Few animals on the planet can match a human for endurance at moderate speeds, especially in warm temperatures.”
This evolutionary perspective reveals that running isn’t something humans invented—it’s something we evolved to do exceptionally well as a survival strategy. Our ancestors who could run more effectively had better access to food and improved chances of survival, gradually leading to the running-adapted physiology we possess today.
Running Through History: From Survival to Sport
As human societies developed beyond hunter-gatherer lifestyles, running evolved from pure survival necessity to serve various cultural, military, and eventually sporting purposes. Let’s trace running’s journey through human civilization.
Running in Ancient Civilizations
In early civilizations, running transitioned from primarily hunting and survival functions to more specialized roles in society:
Messengers: Dedicated runners served as communication networks in ancient empires. The Persian Empire maintained a relay system of runners to deliver messages across vast territories, while the Incas developed the chasqui messenger system to transmit information through the Andes mountains.
Military applications: Ancient armies incorporated running into training and battlefield strategies. Greco-Roman military training emphasized running endurance, while Native American scouts used running to gather intelligence and deliver messages.
Religious and ceremonial significance: Many ancient cultures incorporated running into religious rituals. Native American traditions included ceremonial running, while ancient Mesoamerican cultures featured ritual ball games involving running.
Archaeological evidence including ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs, Greek pottery, and Mesopotamian carvings depicts running figures, confirming its cultural importance across diverse ancient societies.
The Birth of Competitive Running: Ancient Greece & the Olympics
The ancient Greeks elevated running from utility to celebrated athletic competition, establishing many traditions that continue to influence modern running events.The first recorded Olympic Games in 776 BCE featured just one event: the stadion race, a sprint of approximately 600 feet (200 meters). As the Olympic Games developed, additional running events were added:
Diaulos: A two-stadia race (approximately 400 meters)
Dolichos: A longer-distance race of 7-24 stadia
Hoplitodromos: An armed race where athletes ran wearing partial armor and carrying shields
The ancient Greeks regarded running as the purest form of athletic competition, with winners achieving godlike status in Greek society. Victory monuments and poetry celebrated these ancient running champions, establishing the cultural foundation for competitive running that would later revive in the modern era.
Organized running competitions date back thousands of years:
| Time Period | Notable Running Developments |
|---|---|
| 776 BCE | First recorded Olympic Games featuring the stadion race |
| 490 BCE | Pheidippides’ legendary run from Marathon to Athens |
| 19th century | Revival of organized running competitions in England |
| 1896 | First modern Olympic Games featuring running events |
| 1897 | First Boston Marathon established as an annual event |
| 1970s | Running boom transforms running into a popular recreational activity |
The Legend of Pheidippides: Birth of the Marathon
No discussion of running history would be complete without exploring the legendary run that inspired the marathon. According to Greek historian Herodotus, in 490 BCE, a messenger named Pheidippides ran approximately 26 miles from the battlefield at Marathon to Athens to announce the Greek victory over the Persians, before collapsing and dying from exhaustion.
While historical accuracy of this specific story is debated (with some accounts suggesting Pheidippides actually ran from Athens to Sparta and back, a much longer journey), the legend captured public imagination and eventually inspired the modern marathon race.
The connection between this ancient legend and modern competition was solidified when the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 included a marathon race from Marathon to Athens. The standard marathon distance of 26.2 miles (42.195 km) wasn’t established until the 1908 London Olympics, when the course was extended so the race could start at Windsor Castle and finish in front of the royal viewing box at the Olympic stadium.
The marathon represents perhaps the most direct link between ancient running tradition and modern competition,breathing life into the physical challenges our ancestors naturally faced.
Running in the Middle Ages and Renaissance
During the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, organized running largely declined as a formal sport in Europe, though running remained important for military training and practical purposes.
Some traditional folk games and festivals throughout Europe incorporated running races, maintaining an element of competitive running in cultural traditions. By the late Renaissance period, footraces began appearing as entertainment events, often with wagers involved, particularly in England.
Running messengers continued to play vital communication roles throughout this period, with organized courier systems employing runners to deliver messages across territories and between towns. This practical application of running helped maintain recognition of running prowess even as formalized athletic competition waned.
The Rise of Modern Running (19th Century)
The 19th century marked a crucial turning point in running’s history, as it began transitioning from informal folk competitions and practical necessity toward organized sport with standardized rules.
The running boom of the 1970s transformed running from a competitive sport into a widespread recreational activity. Several factors contributed to this explosion in popularity:
- Frank Shorter’s gold medal in the 1972 Olympic marathon
- Steve Prefontaine’s charismatic personality and aggressive racing style
- Publication of the book “Jogging” by Bill Bowerman and W.E. Harris
- Growing awareness of cardiovascular fitness benefits
During this period, recreational runners began participating in races alongside elite runners, democratizing what had previously been primarily a competitive sport. Jogging clubs formed across America, creating communities centered around this accessible form of exercise.
The Rise of Modern Marathons
Major city marathons established during this period continue to grow in popularity:
- Boston Marathon (established 1897)
- New York City Marathon (established 1970)
- London Marathon (established 1981)
- Chicago Marathon (established 1977)
Today, these marathon events attract tens of thousands of participants annually, from elite athletes to first-time marathoners. The phenomenon of “marathon mania” that began in the late 1970s continues to grow, with over 700 marathon races taking place annually in the United States alone.
The Myth of Thomas Running
The internet meme claiming “running was invented in 1748 by Thomas Running” has led many to search for information about this fictional character. This humorous meme plays on the format of legitimate invention attributions but has no historical basis.
Just as Thomas Running is fictional, so is the character “Joshua Jogging” who sometimes appears in similar memes. These humorous creations highlight an important truth: running wasn’t invented but evolved naturally with human development.
The truth is:
- No person named Thomas Running invented running
- Running wasn’t “invented” in 1747, 1748, or any specific year
- Running is an instinctive activity that evolved over millions of years
Modern Running: Technology Meets Tradition
The Evolution of Running Shoes
Running shoes have dramatically evolved since their humble beginnings. Early competitive running was done in minimal leather shoes or even barefoot. The development of specialized running shoes began in earnest in the early 20th century and accelerated during the running boom of the 1970s.
Key developments in running shoe technology include:
- The waffle sole created by Bill Bowerman (co-founder of Nike, originally Blue Ribbon Sports)
- The introduction of EVA foam midsoles in the 1970s
- Motion control and stability features for different foot types
- Modern carbon plate technology for enhanced performance
Today’s runners benefit from shoes designed specifically for different types of running, from sprinting to ultramarathons, with advanced materials providing cushioning, support, and safety features.
Training Methods and Coaching
Modern running has been transformed by scientific approaches to training. Coaches like Arthur Lydiard, Bill Bowerman, and Jack Daniels revolutionized training methodologies in the 20th century, developing periodized training plans based on physiological principles.
American running coach Bill Bowerman, who coached Steve Prefontaine at the University of Oregon before co-founding Nike, was instrumental in popularizing interval training and periodization for distance runners. As an Olympic track coach, his methods helped establish American dominance in distance events during the 1970s.
Running in the 21st Century: A Global Phenomenon
Recreational Running Today
Recreational running has never been more popular than it is today. According to industry statistics:
- Over 60 million Americans engage in running as a form of exercise
- Running consistently ranks among the most popular sports worldwide
- The average age of active runners continues to increase, showing running’s lifelong appeal
- Virtual races and running apps have made participation more accessible than ever
In modern times, running serves multiple purposes:
- Physical fitness and weight management
- Mental health benefits and stress reduction
- Social connection through running groups and events
- Competitive goals from 5Ks to ultramarathons
Elite Competition in the Modern Era
At the elite level, competitive running continues to evolve, with athletes pushing the boundaries of human performance:
- The men’s marathon world record has improved from 2:08:33 in 1969 to 2:00:35 in 2023
- Women’s participation in distance events, once restricted, now features equally in major competitions
- Specialized training for different distances has become increasingly scientific
- Elite runners now make careers as professional runners with sponsorships and prize money
Health Benefits of Running
Running strengthens your heart and improves circulation. Regular runners have 45% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and can lower blood pressure by 5-10 mm Hg. Just 30 minutes of running 3 times a week can significantly improve heart health.
Running triggers the release of endorphins, creating the famous “runner’s high.” Studies show that regular running can reduce symptoms of depression by up to 30% and anxiety by 20%. It also improves sleep quality and reduces stress hormones like cortisol.
Running is one of the most efficient calorie-burning exercises, with a 150-pound person burning approximately 100 calories per mile. Regular runners maintain healthier body composition and have lower rates of obesity. Running also boosts metabolism for hours after your workout.
Contrary to popular belief, running strengthens bones and joints when done properly. Weight-bearing exercise like running increases bone density by 3-5% over time, reducing risk of osteoporosis. Studies show runners have lower rates of arthritis than non-runners as they age.
Research shows that runners live 3-5 years longer on average than non-runners. Even just 5-10 minutes of running per day is associated with markedly reduced risks of death from all causes and cardiovascular disease. Regular runners show biological markers of people 10 years younger than their chronological age.
Running offers numerous health benefits supported by scientific research:
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Weight management and fat loss
- Enhanced mental wellbeing
- Stronger bones and muscles
- Better sleep quality
- Increased longevity
Getting Started with Running
For beginners looking to start running, consider these evidence-based tips:
- Invest in proper running shoes
- Start with a walk-run program
- Focus on proper form
- Build mileage gradually
- Incorporate rest days
- Stay hydrated
- Listen to your body
Modern Running Gear and Technology
Today’s runners benefit from technological advances that enhance the running experience:
- GPS running watches for tracking distance, pace, and routes
- Moisture-wicking fabrics for comfort in various conditions
- Specialized nutrition products for fueling during long runs
- Recovery tools to enhance post-run recovery
- Running apps for training plans and community connection
Conclusion: Running’s Timeless Legacy
When we ask “when was running invented,” we’re exploring humanity’s fundamental connection to movement. Running wasn’t invented in 1747 or any other year—it’s woven into the fabric of human evolution and history.
From our earliest ancestors chasing prey across the savanna to today’s marathon majors attracting thousands of participants, running remains one of our most natural and accessible forms of movement. It connects us to our evolutionary past while continuing to evolve through modern sport and fitness culture.
Running wasn’t invented. It was always part of what makes us human.
FAQs About Running’s Origins and History
When was running invented?
Running wasn’t invented but evolved as a natural human movement millions of years ago. The meme claiming “running was invented in 1747” is simply humor, not historical fact.
Who invented running?
No one person invented running. It’s an innate human ability that evolved through natural selection as our ancestors needed to hunt and avoid predators.
Was running invented in 1748?
No, “running was invented in 1748 by Thomas Running” is just an internet meme. Humans have been running since prehistoric times.
How was running invented?
Running wasn’t invented but developed through evolutionary processes over millions of years as early humans adapted to their environment.
When did running become a sport?
Organized running competitions date back to at least 776 BCE with the ancient Olympic Games in Greece, making it one of the world’s oldest sports.
References 📚
- Harvard University research on endurance running and evolution: Harvard University’s Department of Human Evolutionary Biology
- Information on the Athens 1896 Olympic Games: Britannica
- Official Olympic information: olympic.org
- Details on the first modern Olympic Games: Olympics.com
- Wikipedia entry on running: Running (disambiguation) – Wikipedia
- History of the International Olympic Committee: History of the IOC (olympics.com)
- https://www.220triathlon.com/blog/when-was-running-invented
https://marathonhandbook.com/when-was-running-invented/
https://joggo.run/blog/when-was-running-invented/
https://runtothefinish.com/when-was-running-invented/
https://rockay.com/blogs/blog/the-history-of-running-a-brief-introduction
https://www.runnersworld.com/uk/news/a62349452/when-was-running-invented/
https://www.tiktok.com/@lukedavidson_/video/7328262952518290694?lang=en
https://sportsgearmag.com/running-invented/
As a veteran fitness technology innovator and the founder of GearUpToFit.com, Alex Papaioannou stands at the intersection of health science and artificial intelligence. With over a decade of specialized experience in digital wellness solutions, he’s transforming how people approach their fitness journey through data-driven methodologies.