“A clear mind is what we want for optimal performance.”

On the latest edition of Season 3 of the Oxygen Advantage® podcast, Patrick McKeown is joined by Formula 1 performance coach Michael Italiano.

Michael, an already established performance coach, entered the sport of F1 after a call from old friend and fellow Australian, Daniel Ricardo, who Michael has known since he was 12. After five years with Daniel, Michael is now well established in F1 and is coaching AlphaTauri's Yuki Tsunoda this season.

Michael explains the huge amount of considerations that Formula 1 drivers have to deal with every time they sit behind the wheel of these impressive and powerful machines.

Factors like heat and G-forces can have a huge effect on drivers’ physical condition but also, when people start getting fatigued, cognitive function begins to decline. Mental strength and focus is essential for F1 drivers.

They have to be aware of race positioning, attacking or defending a position, the right way to enter each corner, fuel efficiency, tire wear and much more. All of this happens at an average speed of over 200 miles per hour and a top speed of over 230 mph.

If you follow Formula 1 racing, have watched the ‘Drive to Survive’ Netflix series or just want to know how tough things can be, both physically and mentally, at the apex of world motor sport, then this is the podcast for you.

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Chapters:

00:00 Intro – Challenges an F1 Driver Faces

04:37 The Effects of Heat on the Driver

10:20 Breathing and F1 Driving

13:55 Concentration, Precision and Conditioning

19:31 Visual Spatial Awareness, Concentration and Flow States

27:04 Mouth Breathing and Correct Tongue Resting Posture

29:46 Most Important Traits of a Young Driver

32:30 Conclusion