09/28/2026
Is this perfect running technique?
Comparing Sabastian Sawe and Eluid Kipchoge in their Sub-2 races using the sportsense app. The similarities in their stride pattern are striking.
Kipchoge has a little more vertical movement than Sawe. Otherwise it’s difficult to spot any differences between the two.
A sub 2 marathon is truly one of the greatest endurance sport accomplishments of all time. While some might argue that the 2 hour barrier was a human “limit”, the true limit is actually a bit faster.
I’m a 1991 study “Modeling: optimal marathon performance on the basis of physiological factors,” published by Michael J. Joyner, Joyner calculates a 1:57:58 is the true human limit based on optimal VO2 Max, Lactate Thresholds, and Running Economy.
Keep in mind, When Joyner published this in 1991, the world record was 2:06:50, making his sub-2-hour prediction seem almost impossible at the time.
Recent research by Andrew Jones (2023) suggests that if we plug the absolute best modern elite data into Joyner’s original model, the theoretical limit could actually be as low as 1:55:05 arguing that a “fourth dimension” - physiological resilience (the ability to maintain efficiency as fatigue sets in) - is the final piece of the puzzle.
Given that this comparison shows 2 runners with near identical stride patterns - maybe - we’ve figured out the perfect running technique?
How much faster could this record go?
