Answer:
vi = 5.25 m/s
Step-by-step explanation:
We can determine the initial velocity of the runner by using the first equation of motion, as follows:

where,
vf = final speed of the runner = 4 m/s
vi = initial speed of the runner = ?
a = deceleration of the runner = - 0.25 m/s²
t = time taken = 5 s
Therefore,

vi = 5.25 m/s