Why We Run: A Natural History

When Bernd Heinrich decided to write a memoir of his ultramarathon running experience he realized that the preparation for the race was as important, if not more so, than the race itself. Considering the physiology and motivation of running from a scientific point of view, he wondered what he could learn from other animals.

In Why We Run, Heinrich considers the flight endurance of birds, the antelope’s running prowess and limitations, and the ultra-endurance of camels to understand how human physiology can or cannot replicate these adaptations. With his characteristic blend of scientific inquiry and philosophical musings, Heinrich offers an original and provocative work combining the rigors of science with the passion of running.

What can the animal kingdom teach us about our own capacity for endurance?

• Human Evolution: An examination of how millions of years on the savanna shaped our ancestors for long-distance running.
• Animal Biology: A zoologist’s perspective on the secrets of endurance, from the flight of birds to the prowess of antelopes and the stamina of camels.
• The Mind-Body Connection: A deep dive into the psychology of racing and the mental fortitude required to push past physical limits during a 100-kilometer national championship.
• A Runner’s Memoir: More than a science book, this is a personal story of discovery, combining the passion of a lifelong runner with the rigors of scientific inquiry.