Athlete Running 4

Of all the chronophotographic works featuring runners first presented by Eadweard Muybridge in 1881, Athlete Running 4 (1881) presents the most athletic figure. With an impressive physique, the performer uses his full bodily strength to propel himself forward with every stride. His motion resembles the elegance of the mare in Sallie Gardner at a Gallop (1878), except that on this occasion the human form becomes the object of visual appreciation. This short also benefits from improved lighting, allowing us to distinguish with greater clarity the articulation of the muscle groups that facilitate the activity, making the series better suited to scientific exploration of locomotion. Here we see Muybridge finally able to use his invention for its intended purpose without compromising his artistic framing.