Appears in collection : Mathematics and mouvement in sport - 13/03/2018

We present a model describing the evolution of the velocity, the anaerobic energy, and the propulsive force of a runner as a function of the distance. We introduce the effect of running on a curve and the interaction between two close runners, in the framework of optimal control. Numerical simulations with the toolbox Bocop illustrate the effect of the centrifugal force and the psychological attraction to the runner in front, depending on the lane number.

Around the Mathematical Week "Mathematics and movement", half a day is dedicated to mathematical issues related to movements in sports. It will take place on Tuesday, March 13th from 9am to 12pm at Institut Henri Poincaré, Paris. This event will bring together researchers and industries to discuss the challenges of tomorrow.