Any kind of car racing, whether it is NASCAR, Formula One or whatnot requires some sort of physical fitness, partnered with mental fitness too. While many are just shrugging off that this sport is not requiring any sort of fitness, it is clear that drivers ought to be fit to be able to deliver optimal level of performance.

Getting Started in Motorsport as the Driver

In the next paragraphs, we are going to check out the reason why fitness training and even having access to MMA equipment for drivers is important.

Specific Requirements to be met

There’s been a debate whether motorsport drivers should be considered as athletes or not. On the other hand, there’s been several studies showing drivers are indeed athletes. This includes wide array of mental and physical skills which include:

  • Balance
  • Coordination
  • Muscular endurance
  • Cardiovascular fitness
  • Strength
  • Flexibility and;
  • Mental training strategies

Focus and Composure

It is important among drivers to quickly adapt to the intense racing environment while also having the mental strength to keep their focus and composure throughout the race.

In relation to physical strength, maintaining a strong neck is crucial as drivers are subjected to immense G-forces that are felt for every corner they make. Mind you, this is only among the many parts of the body that should receive rigorous training.

There’s a need as well to consider the fact that every driver is unique. Being able to pay attention not just to their conditioning needs but also, to what type of training they are required to do and to what equipment they should be using. After all, the different racing events will need different requirements.

IndyCar Racing

Both operate physically demanding and technical equipment. This event requires the driver to deal with g-loading and downforce on the body and most especially, on the neck. G-forces can go to as much as 4Gs on any given time of the race.

GT Racing

Conversely speaking, when driving a GT Porsche, it makes the heartbeat for 150 to 170 per minute. The cockpit temperature is sometimes unbearable with some drivers reporting that it can reach 30 to 40 degrees warmer than what the outside temperature has.