The evolution of human bipedalism resulted in skeletal changes to the legs, knee and ankle joints, spinal vertebrae, toes, and arms. It has allowed humans to walk upright long distances, improved mobility, perform physical tasks and explore new environments. Which has been key to our survival and success as a species.
Our Ancestors Evolved Bipedality To Provide Us With a Number of Benefits.
The upright posture helps us:
- Reduce the stress on our backs and allows us to carry out activities with greater ease and comfort.
- Allow us to use our hands more freely to develop tools, weapons, and other technologies that have helped us to thrive and evolve.
We are Wasting The Hard Earn Struggle For Bipedalism of our Ancestors.
But as we developed and used technologies such as computers and smartphones. We increased the amount of time we spend sitting and as a result the number of postural and health problems increases. Some of them are:
- Forward head posture.
- Rounded C-shaped shoulders.
- A hunched back.
- Mental health problems.
- Neck and eye strain.
- Other physical problems.
These postural problems can lead to a range of musculoskeletal disorders, such as:
- Neck and back pain.
- Cardiovascular disease.
- Increased rates of obesity.
- Increased risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
- Chronic diseases.
- Decreased muscle strength and flexibility.
- Reduce the body’s ability to perform physical tasks.
Evolution of Technology and Physical Inactivity
Early humans evolved bipedalism in order to be able to move more efficiently and effectively, which helped to increase their chances of survival and reproduction. In the same way, modern humans must also choose to move in order to maintain their health and well-being.
We know from the history of human evolution that moving helped us evolve, and we must move now!
Our bodies are designed for physical activity and movement but with the continuous development of technology our lifestyle has become easier and a lot safer.
But Is It Also Healthier?
We live in a sedentary society that makes it difficult for us to be physically active. With everything available on the internet it makes it difficult for people to leave their phones or laptops. We can communicate through a screen and text, so we don’t feel the need to go outside or get any sun or fresh air. And this leads people to increase their prolonged periods of sitting on the phone or in the office and limit physical activity.
Impacts of The Modern Sedentary Lifestyle
In the 21st century, the evolution of technology has led to an even more sedentary lifestyle, with people spending more time sitting in front of computers, televisions, and other screens. Furthermore, the rise of online shopping, food delivery, and other convenient services has decreased the need for physical activity in daily life. The result is that many people today suffer from the negative effects of inactivity, such as poor health and decreased fitness levels.
However, it is important for people to find ways to balance their use of technology with regular physical activity and exercise in order to maintain their health and well-being. To reduce the negative impacts of a modern lifestyle on the body, it is important to engage in regular physical activity and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
This can help to :
- Improve physical fitness.
- Reduce the risk of injury.
- Improve posture and balance.
- Promote overall health and well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the evolution of human bipedality has had a significant impact on our ability to move and explore our environment. But our modern lifestyle is wasting all the hard earn efforts of our ancestors. This sedentary lifestyle can have negative impacts on our health, including an increased risk of chronic diseases and musculoskeletal disorders. However, by incorporating regular exercise and movement into our daily lives, we can help mitigate these negative effects and improve our overall health and well-being. It is important to remember that even small changes, such as taking regular breaks to stand and stretch, can make a big difference in our overall health.
By choosing to move and engage in physical activity, we can help to counteract the negative impacts of our modern sedentary lifestyle. And by doing so, we can ensure that we are fulfilling the legacy of our ancestors. And embracing the essential role that the movement has played throughout human history.
