Why Do Cheetahs Run So Fast?

Huge leg muscles that expand faster to produce faster speeds. Small, lightweight body; long legs, loose hips, loose shoulder joints, and a flexible spine allow the cheetah to run 20 to 25 feet in one stride, or long step.

Why do cheetahs need to run fast?

Cheetahs use their incredible speed to hunt light-footed animals like gazelles. Any animal that can go from zero to 40 mph in three strides must have a very specialized body. ... The large tail is both a rudder and counterweight to a cheetah's body so it doesn't spin out during fast turns.

What is the secret of cheetah speed?

Cheetahs and greyhounds have very similar running styles, but somehow the big cats leave their doggy rivals in the dust. Their secret: Cheetahs "switch gears" while running, striding more frequently at higher speeds, new research finds.