think about it: when he applies a constant force, the speed is
still constant instead of increasing. Why?
F=ma.
If the man applies a constant force (F), there should be a
constant acceleration (a). This means that the speed should be
increasing.
However, for this case, speed is constant. This implies that
acceleration (a) is ZERO. This is achievable when the friction
force is equivalent to the applied force.
F - friction = ma
F - friction = 0
F = friction