How walking and the development of human intelligence are related

A new study from the University of Florida suggests walking upright helped humans develop speech and music. Scientists found that standing on two feet led to our sense of rhythm and ability to make music and use language. The findings were published in Current Anthropology.

Walking on two legs makes more regular sounds than chimpanzees moving on all fours. When people walk together, their steps sync up. This helps the brain find important signals, like a predator coming near.

The researchers think those who could not adapt to this rhythm were less likely to survive. This made the ability to hear and make rhythms even stronger.

Babies even feel their mother's steps in the womb. This rhythm, about 120 beats a minute, is like the speed of many songs. It helps develop their hearing, balance, and awareness of their body. Rocking babies calms them because it reminds them of these rhythms.

As humans began walking upright, babies could no longer hold onto their mother's fur like baby monkeys do.

Scientists believe this led to "baby talk." This is a sing-song way of speaking that adults use with infants. It could have been the start of both music and language.

Experts also noted that walking and running can still boost creativity.

The study shows how walking on two legs is tied to how we communicate. The rhythm of our steps may have created music, language, and teamwork.

In the past, scientists have studied how our ancestors first learned to walk upright.

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