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Updated: Sep 5, 2025
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Three and Four-Dimensional Visualization and Analysis Approaches to Study Vertebrate Axial Elongation and Segmentation
Published on: February 28, 2021
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Variation in human 3D trunk shape and its functional implications in hominin evolution.
Markus Bastir1, José María González Ruíz2, Javier Rueda3
1Paleoanthropology Group, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, CSIC, J.G. Abascal 2, 28006, Madrid, Spain. mbastir@mncn.csic.es.
Scientific Reports
|July 11, 2022
Summary
Narrower, flatter torsos with specific spinal curves enhance running speed at high intensities. This external trunk morphology may be linked to improved biomechanics for better running performance.
Area of Science:
- Human evolution
- Biomechanics
- Exercise physiology
Background:
- Evolutionary theories suggest torso shape changes influenced locomotion.
- A narrower, shallower trunk may benefit endurance running.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test if narrow, shallow torso shapes improve running performance.
- To investigate the link between external trunk morphology and running velocity.
Main Methods:
- 3D geometric morphometrics used on 27 trained male volunteers.
- Running velocity measured at varying heart rate reserve (HRR) workloads.
- Correlation analysis between trunk shape and running performance.
Main Results:
- Significant relationship between trunk shape and running velocity at 85% HRR and maximum effort.
- Narrow, flat torsos with low thoracic kyphosis and high lumbar lordosis correlated with higher velocities.
- No significant relationship found at lower workloads (45-50% HRR).
Conclusions:
- External trunk morphology is significantly related to high-intensity running performance.
- Specific trunk shapes may enhance respiratory and lower limb biomechanics for running.
- Torso shape's role in *endurance* running evolution remains uncertain.
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