title: Optimizing athletic performance by influence curves.
abstract: Recent application of modeling techniques to physical training has opened the possibility for prediction from training. Solution of the inverse problem, determining a training program to produce a desired performance at a specific time, is also possible and may yield strategies for achieving better training and tapering (complete or relative rest for a period before competition) regimens for competitive athletes. A mathematical technique derived from model theory is described in this paper that allows the design of an optimal strategy of physical preparation for an individual to do well in a single future competitive event or cluster of events. Simulation results, using default parameters of a training model, suggest that presently accepted forms of taper for competition may remain too rigorous and short in duration to achieve the best result possible from the training undertaken.
authors.affiliation: School of Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.
authors.forename: J R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Fitz-Clarke
authors.forename: R H
authors.initials: RH
authors.lastname: Morton
authors.forename: E W
authors.initials: EW
authors.lastname: Banister
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D009010:Monte Carlo Method; D010806:Physical Education and Training; D013177:Sports