Why is it easier to race in a pack or behind others than to time trial same pace

There is a 7% reduction in VO2 when running near maximal pace while drafting vs leading. There is tons of research on it...I examined biomechanical differences during my Ph.D.

areusure? wrote:

There is a 7% reduction in VO2 when running near maximal pace while drafting vs leading. There is tons of research on it...I examined biomechanical differences during my Ph.D.

Do you have any links to research?

It's partially due to the reduction in air resistance caused by drafting off someone or a group of people. You'll also notice how much harder it is to swing wide and make a move to pass...now you are fighting air resistance.

I also read some years ago about the synchronizing effect of running with someone. Basically once you are close enough your running rythems synch and it becomes easier to maintain that pace vs running alone.

Alan

Because of adrenalin if you are one of those people who is "up" for a race.

Farts. Farts contain EPO. When runners run in front of you their constant farting will release lots of EPO which your body uses to produce oxygen at a higher rate which give you a fair advantage. If you consume too many farts you will fail a drug test though, so be cautious.

Well said sir, well said indeed.

phD in fartology wrote:

Farts. Farts contain EPO. When runners run in front of you their constant farting will release lots of EPO which your body uses to produce oxygen at a higher rate which give you a fair advantage. If you consume too many farts you will fail a drug test though, so be cautious.

Hingle McCringleberry wrote:

Well said sir, well said indeed.

phD in fartology wrote:

Farts. Farts contain EPO. When runners run in front of you their constant farting will release lots of EPO which your body uses to produce oxygen at a higher rate which give you a fair advantage. If you consume too many farts you will fail a drug test though, so be cautious.

Sometimes I twist myself into odd contortions so I can lick my own penis.

areusure? wrote:

There is a 7% reduction in VO2 when running near maximal pace while drafting vs leading. There is tons of research on it...I examined biomechanical differences during my Ph.D.

7% ??? And that does not depend on a number of factors?

Somehow I smell BS.

Psychologists call it \"social facilitation\". It has been studied for over 100 years.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_facilitation

Drafting helps at faster speeds, but there is a boost from social facilitation also.