Further Studies on Locomotion of the Cheetah

Abstract

A high-speed motion picture camera was used to record the gaits of a captive cheetah. A previous study (Hildebrand, J. Mamm., 40: 481–495, 1959) is corrected (in regard to estimated speed and rate of stride) and new data presented on motions of the body at the walk, trot and gallop. The slow gallop (± 33 mph) differs from the fast gallop (± 56 mph) in that stride is shorter (though scarcely slower), and also in the use of the spine, duration of the support periods, placement of leading feet and paths followed by the feet between footfalls.