Eli5: how are humans, who are two legged, able to out endure creatures that are four legged?

Question

Eli5: how are humans, who are two legged, able to out endure creatures that are four legged?

In: 1455

Answer 1

Humans (and the dogs we have taught to do it with us) are the only animals that run long distance. All other creatures settle into a comfortable jog that eats up miles without over tiring them. Dogs run better below 40°F, from 40-70 F it’s roughly equal, above 70F humans do better, and markedly so above 80F. Four legged critters aren’t meant to run distance, they’re meant to sprint.