In memory of Kelvin Kiptum: a reflection on his record-breaking marathon and the future outlook for a sub 2-h race from a drafting perspective.
Eur J Appl Physiol
; 124(8): 2379-2388, 2024 Aug.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38523228
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Drafting is a common technique to reduce the drag experienced by elite runners on races, leading to faster finish times. The tactic has been successfully used in previous marathon world records. In the 2023 Chicago Marathon, Kenyan runner Kelvin Kiptum broke the marathon record after a 20035 finish. This feat is impressive considering the lack of use of drafting, despite the availability of two pacers for the majority of the race.METHODS:
In this study, the drag faced by Kiptum and his pacers during the race is calculated by means of computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The performance of each runner is evaluated from an energetic standpoint, and the analysis is extended to include more efficient drafting formations.RESULTS:
Running in proper formations results in drag reductions in excess of 70% for the main runner. Our results indicate that, by properly using the advantages of drafting, Kiptum could have finished the race at a staggering 15734, a full three minutes better than his own record and 215 s better than the previous world record.CONCLUSION:
Proper use of drafting does indeed improve the energetic performance of a runner, allowing for lower race times and potentially helping elite runners in breaking the 2-h barrier for a marathon.Palabras clave
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Base de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Carrera de Maratón
Límite:
Humans
/
Male
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Eur J Appl Physiol
Asunto de la revista:
FISIOLOGIA
Año:
2024
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Estados Unidos
Pais de publicación:
Alemania