POLE POSITION

Mark Arnall, fitness trainer and physio to F1 World Champion drivers Mika Häkkinen and Kimi Räikkönen, says planning and routine are key to staying in good shape and maximising performance when travelling

- Gemma Greenwood

Do you put on weight, eat in a less than healthy way and struggle to maintain your training routine while you travel? If you answered yes, you are not alone, but it doesn’t have to be that way.

I have been working in F1 for 23 years as a trainer for two World Champions and whether I’m putting together a wellness package for an F1 driver or a business traveller, the approach is the same. We travel all the time and I have to make sure Kimi stays in shape, as well as maintain my own fitness levels.

With a bit of planning, an effective approach can maintain fitness levels, boost the immune system, reduce the effects of jet lag and improve levels of focus.

Everyone is different, but staying in good shape (or maintaining your current level) while travelling requires a few general attributes – a desire/ mindset to stick to some type of routine and a plan as to how you will achieve those goals.

We prioritise immune system support to prevent getting unwell while simultaneously aiming to reduce jet lag impact. The aircraft in which you fly in and the route you take also makes a big difference.

Whenever possible, fly direct and on the newer planes – the A350 or B787 Dreamliner where possible, because higher humidity levels and lower cabin altitude help to combat jetlag. The immune system is enhanced and maintained by various protocols – nutrition is at the forefront of this. We aim to supply the body with nutrient-dense food that has a positive impact while avoiding empty calories and junk that serve little nutritional purpose.