CART: Mercedes-Benz Circuit Training on the Champ Car Circuit
22 October 1999
Posted By Terry
Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
Just as a long race can tax racing engines and cooling systems, it can
also
take its toll on the athletes in the cockpit. To develop the physical and
mental strength and stamina that provides a competitive edge, today's
Champ
Car drivers have adopted demanding exercise and dietary regimes. Trainer Jim Leo serves as nutritionist and personal trainer for PacWest Mercedes-Benz drivers Mauricio Gugelmin and Mark Blundell.
"Driving a race car requires mental toughness as well as the ability to handle heart rates up to 150-200 beats per minute along with dehydration," said Leo. "If a basketball player gets tired, he can sit down. If a race car driver gets tired and makes a mistake, he could hit the wall."
Editors Note: For hundreds of hot racing photos and racing
art, be sure to visit The Racing
ImageGalleries and the
Visions
of Speed Art Gallery.