Breakneck speeds. Scorching heat. Extreme g-forces. Motor racing is one of the most challenging of all sports - not only for drivers themselves, but also for the teams that play an integral role in the performance of the driver and car.

As the 2019 Formula One World Championship Season launches into action this weekend in Melbourne, F1 physiotherapist Kim Keedle takes a pit stop with BJSM’s Daniel Friedman (T: @ddfriedman) to share insights into the physically and mentally demanding world of motor racing.

Kim graduated from Melbourne University in 2012 with a Bachelors of Physiotherapy, and completed a Masters in Strength & Conditioning at Edith Cowan University in 2016. He is currently working full time as a physiotherapist and high performance coach for the Haas F1 Team, based in Geneva.

In this 17 minute conversation, Kim explains:

· His pathway into F1

· The role of the physiotherapist within the broader F1 medical team

· The physical and mental demands of F1 racing

· The importance of neck and trunk strength for drivers

· Cervical loading programs and conditioning during the off season

Further reading:

https://blogs.bmj.com/bjsm/2013/03/26/the-fast-and-the-furiousand-physiotherapy-training-for-extreme-g-force-loads-on-the-neck/