starting line reaction tools/methods for stockers
 

Racers,

let me hear about some successful methods/equipment for good starting reaction. That is to say, long throw switch, brake pedal switch, etc.

Thanks

Re: starting line reaction tools/methods for stockers
 

K.I.S.S. principle.... the less peripherals the better. Footbrake it, and get a handheld practice tree from Biondo. Train your brain.

$.02,

Re: starting line reaction tools/methods for stockers
 

...add to that a healthy diet, lots of sleep, abstain of alcohol, sugar or caffeine the week prior and during the race.

Re: starting line reaction tools/methods for stockers
 

I appreciate both these comments. The note about healthy foods and adequate sleep is especially timely for me. My weigh and fitness level have gradually, "slipped away" and I don't like it and intend to do something about it!

Re: starting line reaction tools/methods for stockers
 

Or, you could try the John Force method...gulp down Reese's Cups while in the lanes.

Re: starting line reaction tools/methods for stockers
 

are you kidding?

Re: starting line reaction tools/methods for stockers
 

Put a young gun in the driver seat. I did.

Re: starting line reaction tools/methods for stockers
 

No, I am not kidding. As a matter of fact, many of the top racers do follow a diet prior to a race, exercise and get a good rest. Do you think your reaction times are going to be better after downing beers and having a steak the night before a big race?

As a matter of fact, I remember a well known Pro Stock racer at a Safeway store on a Sunday morning prior to a national event, searching for Tylenol to deal with a hangover due to excessive drinking. He admitted to another person that he only had two hours of sleep, had been partying and drinking heavily. If NHRA had taken a close look at him, probably they would not had allowed him to drive.

There is a book about motrosports driving that was written by Jackie Stewart. He wrote a whole chapter about diets and physical conditioning for racing. I feel it was one of the reasons why he became such an excellent driver.

As a matter of fact, one of the best sections in National Dragster, was the Running Healthy column with Dr. Jeremy Torstveit. He addressed many of these issues on his articles.

Re: starting line reaction tools/methods for stockers
 

SSDiv6

I completely agree with your comments. There may be some drivers who can party the night before and perform the next day, I can not. My age is 61 and I have gradually come to understand the importance of driver fitness as part of the overall performance package.

I think it would be an interesting discussion to discover the lifestyle habits of successful drivers. I expect, for the most part, drivers who regularly appear in the late rounds have not been at a late night party in the previous days.

Re: starting line reaction tools/methods for stockers
 

In his book, Jackie Stewart said that the week prior of the race, he would only eat fish, lamb, vegetables, sea weed (not the one people smoke), fresh fruits, juice and water. No alcohol, beef, pastries, sugars or caffeine.