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If you’ve ever bragged about being a fast runner, it might be time for a reality check. Nature is packed with speed demons that could leave you eating their dust before you’ve even had the chance to lace up your sneakers.
These creatures aren’t just quick; they’re built for pure, breathtaking acceleration, whether it’s on land, through water, or in the air.
Here are five animals that will easily beat you in a race:
Cheetahs are considered the fastest land animals in the world. These magnificent creatures are covered in spots that are unique for every animal, just like fingerprints in humans. Cheetahs can reach speeds of 65 mph (105 km/h) and 75 mph (121 km/h), accelerating from zero to 60 mph (96.5 km/h) in just three seconds. Not just that, they are built for speed as they have slender bodies and can weigh between 75 and 125 pounds. If you think you’ve still got a chance, then you couldn’t be more wrong.
The fastest bird on land, ostriches can reach speeds of 43 mph (70 km/h), according to the National Zoo. Despite their inability to fly due to their large size, these birds use their powerful legs and wings to reach from one place to another. What’s even more impressive is that they can cover about 10 feet in a single stride, a feat no human can achieve.
This one is a no-brainer. Horses are known for their ability to run fast. Depending on their breed, most horses can reach speeds up to 70 km/h and maintain this for far longer than humans. According to Loughborough University, “Due to their ability to transport and utilise enormous levels of oxygen they were able to sustain speeds twice that of humans.”
If your race is in the ocean, there’s no chance that you can win the competition against sailfish. They are considered the fastest fish and can reach speeds of 110 km/h. This is achievable because of their long, slender body and an enormous dorsal fin that help them cut through the water with ease.
The king of the jungle lives up to the name. With average speeds around 80 km/h, these predators can run twice as fast as humans and reach even higher speeds in short bursts. However, where humans might win is endurance. Lions can run fast for short distances and get tired quickly. So, in a marathon-like scenario, a fit human can easily outrun a lion as they have much more energy in comparison.