Mathematics of Running Style
Stride length and cadence change as runners speed up. This explores how, using video analysis and measurements you collect yourself, fitted with a model linking speed to stride length and cadence.
Where this idea comes from
Start here — this is the source that inspired this exploration.
Introduction
A short video filmed at a known frame rate lets you measure stride length, cadence (steps per minute) and knee angle directly. This exploration collects that data at several running speeds for yourself, fits a model linking speed to stride length and cadence, and compares the result with published data for elite runners. A straight-line fit (AI SL) is a reasonable first model; if the relationship curves, a non-linear regression (AI HL) may fit the data better.
Guiding Questions
- What can you measure about a running stride from a video — stride length, cadence, knee angle?
- Collect data for yourself at different speeds. How do stride length and cadence change as you speed up?
- Fit a model linking speed to stride length and cadence. Which matters more for you?
- Compare your numbers with published data for elite runners. What explains the differences?