As an expert in the field of sports physiology and biomechanics, I have a deep understanding of the factors that contribute to an athlete's performance, including the fastest runners in the world. When discussing the fastest runner in the world, it's important to differentiate between the realm of theoretical potential and the actual recorded achievements in the realm of athletics.
Usain Bolt, a Jamaican retired sprinter, is widely recognized as the fastest man in the world based on his recorded times. His record-setting performances in the 100-meter and 200-meter sprints are legendary. Bolt's world record in the 100 meters is 9.58 seconds, set in 2009 at the World Athletics Championships in Berlin. This translates to an average speed of approximately 27.79 mph (44.72 km/h). In the 200 meters, his world record is 19.19 seconds, set in the same championships, which equates to an average speed of about 23.35 mph (37.58 km/h).
The study you mentioned from January 22, 2010, suggests that humans might theoretically be capable of running as fast as 40 mph (64.37 km/h). This is an intriguing proposition, as it implies that there may be untapped potential within human physiology. However, it's important to note that such a speed has never been achieved in an official competition and remains in the realm of speculation and scientific inquiry.
The factors that limit human speed are multifaceted. They include an individual's muscle fiber composition, which affects the type of muscle contractions (fast-twitch vs. slow-twitch), the efficiency of the cardiovascular system, the biomechanics of running, including stride length and frequency, and the ability to generate and maintain force over a sprint distance. Additionally, environmental factors such as track surface, footwear, and even air resistance play a role.
Researchers who are examining the limits of human speed are looking at these and other factors to understand what might be possible. They may use advanced imaging techniques to study muscle activation, force platforms to measure the ground reaction forces, and wind tunnels to understand air resistance. They also consider the physiological adaptations that occur during high-intensity training, which can improve an athlete's ability to generate power and maintain speed.
While it's fascinating to consider the theoretical limits of human speed, it's also important to appreciate the incredible achievements of athletes like Usain Bolt, who have pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible. As of my last update, no one has surpassed Bolt's records, and his name remains synonymous with sprinting excellence.
In conclusion, the fastest runner in the world, based on verified athletic records, is Usain Bolt. The theoretical possibility of a human running 40 mph is an exciting area of study, but it has not yet been realized in competition. The quest to understand and enhance human performance continues to be a fascinating intersection of sports, science, and human endeavor.

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Humans could perhaps run as fast 40 mph, a new study suggests. Such a feat would leave in the dust the world's fastest runner, Usain Bolt, who has clocked nearly 28 mph in the 100-meter sprint. The new findings come after researchers took a new look at the factors that limit human speed.Jan 22, 2010read more >>