Walking Heel First (IMAGE) University of Utah Caption The heels-first walking pattern typical of humans is demonstrated by a University of Utah student who participated in a study showing that people save a lot of energy by planting their heels down first rather than walking on their toes or the balls of their feet. Credit David Carrier, University of Utah. Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.