How Lewis Hamilton Uses Altitude Training To Get ‘His Mind And Body Right’

Reports claim that negotiations between the driver and his team hit a wall, with Hamilton pushing for another multi-year deal, whilst Mercedes only want to sign the seven-time world champion for another year – enough to send any sports star into a social media hiatus. So it makes sense that Hamilton packed up his things and headed somewhere a little more remote.

“Hey World, I haven’t been on here for a while. I’m in one of my favourite places in the world, training everyday, getting my mind and body right,” reposted on his Instagram this morning.

Known to have an affinity for the snow, Hamilton spent last year’s offseason snowboarding in Colorado before going surfing in Mexico, so it’s safe for us to assume that the driver shot off to the same snowy location for 2021. However this year, the tone of Hamilton’s break seems a little more rigid, breaking down what he has achieved so far, and what he has planned for the rest go the month.

“I’m hiking to the top of the mountain every morning. Two of those hikes I cross country ski once I get to the top which is at 3400m, killer. Proper altitude training!! Hamilton explained. “I’m trying to find the right balance in cardio and strength building.”

Altitude training is well known for its ability to boost stamina, with it’s two main methods being Live High Train High (HiHi), Live Low Train High (LoHi) and Live High Train Low (HiLo) (you can read about that here). Basically, the higher the altitude, the lower the air pressure. Low pressure means dispersed oxygen so you need to take twice as many breaths. Your breathing and heart rate increase to compensate.

Speaking to Men’s Health last year, Hamilton explained that he commonly opts for training methods that are more unexpected than not. “I like lifting weights, but I have to make sure that I don’t overdo it. Formula 1 drivers can’t be too heavy: more muscle means more kilos. It’s also disadvantageous to put too much muscle on your shoulders and arms, because you need to have a low centre of gravity in the car. It’s important to have a good cardiovascular system as a driver,” he said. “… over the years, I’ve experimented with a number of different disciplines, like boxing and Muay Thai. These days, I do lots of pilates, focusing on the core – the muscles beneath the muscles.”

But key to Hamilton’s success, especially at a time like this, is his ability to place precedent on his mental health – exactly what he aimed to highlight in today’s message.

“…lots of work [is ]ongoing in the background. Many moving parts but just checking in to let you know I’m doing good, I’m healthy and mentally strong right now in my bubble. I hope you are staying as positive as you can with all that is still going on. Keep your head up. I can’t wait to see you all again at some stage soon.”

A hint about the 2021 season? Probably. A great message to his followers? Absolutely.