Mathematical Modelling and Optimisation of Athletic Performance: Tapering and Periodisation
Quantitative Methods
2025-05-28 v1
Abstract
We conduct a mathematical optimisation of the training load to maximise performance for two seminal athletic performance models: the Banister et al. 1975 Fitness-Fatigue Impulse Response Model and the Busso 2003 Variable Dose-Response Model. We discuss discrepancies in the general trends of the optimised training loads compared to common training practices recommended in the sports science literature, such as tapering and periodisation. We then propose a set of interpretable nonlinear modifications in the magnitude and time response to training in the fitness-fatigue model such that the optimised training load demonstrates these trends.
Keywords
Cite
@article{arxiv.2505.20859,
title = {Mathematical Modelling and Optimisation of Athletic Performance: Tapering and Periodisation},
author = {David Ceddia and Howard Bondell and Peter Taylor},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2505.20859},
year = {2025}
}
Comments
22 pages, 8 figures and 1 table