Enter the original running speed without wind, wind speed, direction of the wind, and the wind resistance coefficient into the calculator to determine the wind effect on running speed.

Wind Effect On Running Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the wind effect on running speed.

WE = S + (W * D * C)

Variables:

  • WE is the wind effect on running speed (km/h)
  • S is the original running speed without wind (km/h)
  • W is the wind speed (km/h)
  • D is the direction of the wind relative to the running direction (0 for tailwind, 1 for headwind)
  • C is the wind resistance coefficient (typically 0.02)

To calculate the wind effect on running speed, multiply the wind speed by the direction of the wind and the wind resistance coefficient. Add this result to the original running speed without wind.

What is a Wind Effect On Running?

Wind effect on running refers to the impact that wind has on a runner’s performance. Wind resistance can slow a runner down, making it harder to maintain a certain pace, especially when running into a headwind. Conversely, a tailwind can help push a runner forward, potentially increasing their speed. The stronger the wind, the more significant its impact on running performance. Wind can also affect a runner’s body temperature, making it feel cooler or warmer depending on the wind’s direction.

How to Calculate Wind Effect On Running?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Wind Effect On Running:


  1. First, determine the original running speed without wind (S) in km/h.
  2. Next, determine the wind speed (W) in km/h.
  3. Next, determine the direction of the wind relative to the running direction (D). Assign 0 for tailwind and 1 for headwind.
  4. Next, determine the wind resistance coefficient (C). Typically, it is 0.02.
  5. Finally, use the formula WE = S + (W * D * C) to calculate the wind effect on running speed (WE) in km/h.

Example Problem:

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge:

original running speed without wind (S) = 10 km/h

wind speed (W) = 5 km/h

direction of the wind relative to the running direction (D) = 0 (tailwind)

wind resistance coefficient (C) = 0.02