Your walking brain

Ever wondered why you don’t trip

up more often on uneven terrain? Scientists in the USA have discovered that our brains are always one step ahead of our bodies as we walk.

The team from the University of Texas asked 44 walkers to step on illuminated targets temporarily visible on a flat route. The participants’ accuracy in hitting the target was at its highest when they saw it between 1 and 1 ½ steps ahead.

It is believed this ability evolved when our early ancestors needed to negotiate rough terrain, find food and avoid predators. And it’s a handy skill for modern walkers who want to avoid tripping over tree roots.