When it comes to tiring activities, 'sitting down' is not at the top of most lists. However, if you happen to be sitting down in an F1 car for two hours while propelling it at 200mph, then it is going to wear you out. That is why F1 drivers are among the world's fittest sportsmen. It is totally different from any other sport in the world, because of the demand it places on the concentration and the heart of the F1 driver. Just the slightest misjudgment of the driving situation or the control panel can be fatal.
Here is a four point body workout that will put you on the road to a finely tuned muscle frame.
1. Swiss ball press ups
Concentrating on strengthening the core muscles from neck to hips. Doing press ups with your feet balanced on a Swiss ball achieves this. If there is an accident, this
is the part of the body that is going to take the impact.
2. Swiss ball balancing
Sit on the ball with your feet together on the floor, then lift up one foot and try to keep balanced. Then lift the other foot up, trying to remain on the ball. This is great for your lower-back and hip areas. You can also push your forehead against someone's hands to strengthen your neck.
3. Low impact aerobic exercise
If you are driving in extreme heat and stress for 90 minutes, you need to be fit. From some top drivers heart rates are measured up to 180bpm. Some can run 11 miles a day, but a low impact exercise like cycling is preferable.
4. Over arm pull ups
Pull ups strengthen the upper back, but by using an over arm grip you develop your forearm strength and therefore the strength of your grip, which is obviously important to drivers.