by Ruth Wolf

Racing is a sport of control, sensitivity, stamina and endurance. I've spent the past few months reviewing some tech issues that I feel are relevant for good car maintenance and performance. In this last article before vacation I'd like to review a few things to keep in mind for driver maintenance and performance.

Driving a racing car is not usually perceived as a physical sport, the way that running or rowing is seen. Then again runners do not wear Nomex in 90 degree temperatures or are strapped into machines running at 220 degree engine temperatures - extreme conditions.

So how important is physical fitness?? Fitness maximizes performance.

To drive well the body and the mind are synchronized to gather and process information and produce physical action, instantaneously.

Drivers spend a long time in the car under the stress of g-forces plus banging, bumping, and jolts while the body is in an isometric contraction. This requires a lot of strength, and muscle control to stay alert and calm.

In tests with drivers it has been shown that motorsports accelerates the heart rate significantly.

EXERCISE

Exercise and stretch to keep the body limber and maintain cardiovascular stamina to bring more oxygen to your muscles and to the brain. Lung capacity will increase oxygenated blood, which reduces the heart rate and aids in clearer thought process.

Exercise to increase endurance - aerobic workouts, sets with light weights and lots of reps. Build upper body strength, especially the neck.

DIET AND DEHYDRATION

Our bodies store reserves for approximately one hour of activity.

Eat carbohydrates for energy.

Fats require twice as much oxygen for digestion - oxygen that should be going to the muscles and to the brain.

Have proteins after your workouts to restore muscle fiber.

Drink water, lots of water. Dehydration will make you weak, dizzy and can cause you to black out.

Fitness is beneficial to having a positive, confident attitude for dealing with the stress and risks of competition. This positive attitude is effective in keeping a good working relationship with crew, sponsors and fans. Success is the result.

To be successful requires consistency, hard work, discipline, determination and intelligence.

But, if you are not having fun, find another sport.