There are lot of fans of Formula One (F1) racing, and lot of them probably may not get the opportunity to every experience what its like to be formula One racer.
But did you know that Formula One drivers require the same level of fitness as top football players and elite tennis stars?
An yes, even they are prone to cramp mid-race!
Team sports scientist Dan Williams says Fitness is extremely important to an F1 driver.
“We look at their stamina rating in terms of a score from 0-100, their Vo2 max, and their score would be anywhere between 60 and 65. Comparing it with other sports, you’d be looking at a Premier League footballer or an elite tennis player,” says Williams.
And can the car racers really get cramps mid race?
Yes, says Williams.
‘The races are long, they last up to two hours, 50-60 laps, and take place in very demanding environments like Malaysia where it is extremely hot. They can get cramp during the race due to dehydration. Somewhere like Malaysia, the sweat rate increases because of the temperature and they can lose a lot of salts and sodium in their body. This can cause or lead to cramps.’
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