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Rationale and resources for teaching the mathematical modeling of athletic training and performance
David C Clarke1, Philip F Skiba
1Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA. clarkedc@mit.edu
Advances in Physiology Education
|June 4, 2013
Summary
Performance modeling, using critical power (CP) and impulse-response (IR) models, offers valuable insights for exercise science professionals. Educating practitioners on these mathematical tools can enhance training program design and athletic performance.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
- Biomechanical Engineering
Background:
- Exercise prescription is crucial for health and athletic performance across various professions.
- Mathematical modeling, termed performance modeling, is an essential tool for designing effective training programs.
- Existing models like critical power (CP) and impulse-response (IR) provide complementary physiological insights.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for the integration of performance modeling into exercise physiology curricula.
- To provide educators with resources for teaching mathematical modeling in exercise science.
- To address the educational gap limiting the adoption of performance modeling.
Main Methods:
- Review of critical power (CP) and impulse-response (IR) models in exercise science.
- Discussion of the pedagogical and practical benefits of performance modeling.
- Development of teaching strategies and resources for different audiences.
Main Results:
- Both CP and IR models accurately fit performance data and abstract underlying physiology.
- Performance modeling enhances understanding of training adaptations and work rate-duration relationships.
- Educational resources, including software, are provided to facilitate learning.
Conclusions:
- Integrating performance modeling into exercise physiology education offers significant pedagogical and practical advantages.
- Educators are encouraged to incorporate these mathematical modeling skills into their curricula.
- This approach can improve training program design and athletic performance analysis.
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