Hamilton ‘feels stronger’ thanks to new F1 training methods

Lewis Hamilton feels at the strongest level he has been for a long time after experimenting with his training regime ahead of the 2019 Formula 1 season. 

Hamilton ramped up his training methods over the winter in a bid to bulk up under F1’s increased weight rules for the upcoming campaign, with drivers now required to meet a minimum weight of 80kg which is separate to the weight of the car. 

As a result, the five-time world champion reckons he is in his best condition in years after gaining several kilograms of muscle in a renewed push for added strength. 

“I’m still within the limit so I’m good,” Hamilton said. 

“Every year, doing the same thing, not necessarily the same thing but the fundamentals have been pretty much the same. You have to reach a similar target every year. 

“So for once to have that bar lifted, and to really dig deep into other elements of the training has been quite an exciting challenge. 

“Every year you get back into training it is painful. But trying different methods, and I’ve worked with several different people for once, to try different things throughout the weeks which has been exciting, and I get to take that throughout the year. 

“Deep-rooted core wise, I feel stronger than I’ve been in a long time.” 

Martial arts and surfing were among the different disciplines Hamilton trailed over the break, while he worked with a range of trainers, including a devote Vegan. 

“My body fat is going down and you target more efficient defined muscle,” Hamilton, who has switched to a plant-based diet in recent years, explained. 

“I am not trying to be the Hulk, but it takes time to put on muscle in the right way, but it has been great to eat bigger portions.

“I got in the car and I had put weight on. I did my seat fit the other day and it was interesting. But now that weight has gone down again. 

“It will fluctuate and it is about maintaining, but I have enjoyed training a lot more. Training is not the most exciting thing but you can make it fun if you bring in other elements.

“I worked with some different trainers over the winter. I worked with different people a few days on and a few days off just to pick up new techniques.” 

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff believes Hamilton is in the best condition - both physically and mentally - that he has witnessed during the Briton’s six-year spell at the team. 

“The weight regulations have been lifted and he came back stronger and musclier than before,” Wolff added. 

“He’s in a super mental state, the best I’ve seen so far. He looks physically and mentally in shape.”