Sainz reveals 'essential' routine during coronavirus outbreak

McLaren's Carlos Sainz has revealed his three "daily essentials" – Physical training, nutrition and mental health – to keep himself fit, healthy and prepared during the coronavirus break.

The Spaniard managed to finish a stellar sixth in 2019’s campaign with a maiden podium, and there’s no doubt that he’s pushing for the same this season – so he’s got a solid routine with three keys to preparation.

As he explained to McLaren's official website: "For cardio, I do a mixture of intensities depending on the day and how fresh I am feeling - using a treadmill, bike and cross-trainer.

"However, sometimes my [personal] trainer and I will include... a series of bodyweight exercises in a circuit format, and this is also a great cardio workout if you have no equipment.

It is crucial to recharge mentally and you must allow time for it to happen
Carlos Sainz

His strength training revolves around the whole body with a focus on his neck and shoulders for the strenuous G-force demands of F1.

"A lot of it [strength training] can be done with limited equipment, even bodyweight, but resistance bands are really versatile.

"With all this, it is essential to do plenty of mobility to stay flexible and keep the body healthy. I do these as separate exercises before and after sessions or just on their own sometimes, with an extra focus on relaxation and deep breathing."

As for nutrition, Sainz varies his carbohydrate intake depending on his training schedule.

Sainz was very optimistic about McLaren's pace in pre-season testing

"On tougher training days," he explained, "I need to eat more and can eat simpler forms of carbohydrate to make sure I am fuelled for those sessions. But on rest days or easier days, I will eat much less as I do not need as much energy. This makes sure I keep lean during this period!"

Then there are the supplements, which include probiotics, fish oils and, pivotally, Vitamin D.

"Vitamin D is probably even more crucial at the moment considering we have to stay at home, and it plays a key role in the immune system,” he said, adding that he limits his coffee intake to ensure a good night’s sleep.

SAO PAULO, BRAZIL - NOVEMBER 17: Carlos Sainz of Spain and McLaren F1 celebrates after later being — 2019 heralded a first F1 career podium for Sainz, who's keeping himself fighting fit for more

Last but definitely not least on his list is mental wellbeing.

"It can vary from person to person but it is crucial to recharge mentally and you must allow time for it to happen. I enjoy doing things with my family, like playing card games and chess – it’s good for testing the brain and is a fun way to come together at the end of the day."

There's also videogames and sim racing that help with reflexes, as well as reading and while Sainz is adamant not to become a couch potato, he shared some of his favourite TV series to binge during the coronavirus lockdown.

They include Peaky Blinders, Money Heist, and, naturally, Formula 1: Drive to Survive.

Sainz reveals 'essential' routine during coronavirus outbreak

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