When Chase Briscoe reflects on his journey in motorsports, he’s quick to point out the dedication it takes to compete at NASCAR’s highest level. Like many racecar drivers, Briscoe often hears the age-old criticism: “Racecar drivers aren’t athletes.” But one look at his physical and mental preparation for the NASCAR Cup Series, and that myth is quickly debunked.
Briscoe, who pilots the No. 14 Ford Mustang for Stewart-Haas Racing, embodies what it means to be a modern racecar driver: a combination of endurance athlete, strategic thinker, and mental warrior.
The Physical Demands of Driving at 200 MPH
For Briscoe and his fellow drivers, a race weekend is much more than sitting behind the wheel. The physical strain of controlling a 3,400-pound racecar at speeds exceeding 200 mph is immense.
1. Heat Tolerance:
Cockpit temperatures during a race often climb above 130°F. Briscoe, like many drivers, conditions his body to handle extreme heat. Hydration and endurance training are critical, as drivers can lose up to 10 pounds of water weight during a race.
2. G-Forces:
Racing subjects drivers to intense lateral g-forces, particularly on tracks like Bristol or Martinsville. Briscoe’s core strength and neck stability are crucial in maintaining control and comfort over long races.
3. Reaction Time:
At race pace, decisions are made in milliseconds. Briscoe’s quick reflexes and physical conditioning help him stay sharp, avoid wrecks, and take advantage of opportunities on the track.
4. Workout Routine:
Briscoe incorporates strength and cardio training into his fitness regimen, focusing on core and upper body exercises to handle the steering wheel and maintain stamina for hours of competition.
“People think we just turn left,” Briscoe has said with a laugh. “But there’s so much more to it. The physical demands are real, and staying in top shape is a big part of staying competitive.”
Mental Toughness: A Driver’s Greatest Asset
Physical fitness is only half the battle. Briscoe’s success is also rooted in his mental preparation, which sets him apart in high-pressure situations.
1. Focus and Endurance:
A NASCAR race can last three hours or more, requiring drivers to maintain complete focus for every lap. Briscoe has honed his ability to tune out distractions and stay locked in during grueling races.
2. Strategic Thinking:
Whether it’s managing tire wear, conserving fuel, or adjusting to changing track conditions, Briscoe’s ability to think critically under pressure is vital.
3. Resilience:
The mental toll of racing is significant, especially during tough seasons. Briscoe’s ability to bounce back after setbacks—whether a crash, penalty, or mechanical failure—is a testament to his mental toughness.
Debunking the Myth
Chase Briscoe’s career is a masterclass in why racecar drivers are elite athletes. From his rigorous training regimen to his mental sharpness, he embodies the attributes of a true competitor.
Motorsports might not look like traditional sports, but the demands placed on drivers like Briscoe are no less intense than those faced by football players, sprinters, or cyclists. The endurance required to compete for hours, the strength needed to control a racecar, and the mental focus to execute strategy make drivers some of the most versatile athletes in the world.
Briscoe’s Response to the Critics
Briscoe has addressed the skepticism head-on, pointing to the sacrifices and hard work that go into racing at the Cup level.
“It’s easy to judge from the outside, but spend a day in our shoes—or our fire suits—and you’ll see it’s no walk in the park,” Briscoe says. “We train like athletes because we are athletes.”
A Final Lap on the Debate
For Chase Briscoe, the question of whether racecar drivers are athletes isn’t a debate—it’s a fact. With his relentless preparation, physical endurance, and razor-sharp mental game, Briscoe proves that NASCAR drivers aren’t just athletes—they’re among the most elite in the sporting world.
And as Briscoe continues to battle it out on the track, he’ll keep silencing the doubters—one lap at a time.
