Pace and motor control optimization for a runner

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new model for optimizing running pace and motor effort over a fixed distance, using turnpike theory to simplify long-term behavior and estimating effects of terrain variations.

Contribution

It presents a novel combined model for pace and motor control optimization, applying turnpike theory and terrain effect estimation for runners.

Findings

Numerical simulations support the turnpike approximation.

The model effectively estimates slope and ramp effects.

Simplified problem formulation aids in practical optimization.

Abstract

Our aim is to present a new model which encompasses pace optimization and motor control effort for a runner on a fixed distance. We see that for long races, the long term behaviour is well approximated by a turnpike problem. We provide numerical simulations quite consistent with this approximation which leads to a simplified problem. We are also able to estimate the effect of slopes and ramps.