pedestrianism

Pedestrianism was a popular 19th-century sport focused on long-distance walking races, often lasting over several days and covering hundreds of miles. Participants, called "pedestrians," would walk steadily on a track, demonstrating endurance and stamina. These events drew large crowds and significant betting interest, similar to modern marathon or ultramarathon sports. Pedestrianism played a key role in popularizing endurance sports and influenced later athletic competitions, though it eventually declined in prominence. It showcased human physical endurance, competitive spirit, and the cultural fascination with extreme feats of stamina during that era.