How F1 drivers are shedding the flab to compensate for heavier redesigned cars

Formula One drivers have reportedly been told to lose weight by dieting in order to continue with their jobs as lighter drivers make it easier for teams to adjust car balance and stay close to the minimum weight

With next season's redesigned cars set to be heavier than the current models, the teams are constantly monitoring the body mass of their respective drivers as the car must meet a minimum weight of 642 kilos- the weight of the car and driver combined without fuel- to help level the competition.

The report mentioned that leading drivers like 2009 world champion Jenson Button, Red Bull racer Mark Webber and Force India star Paul di Resta have all complained about the rigours that they had to face in order to bring themselves to a suitable weight for their team.

According to a physical trainer, an ideal diet for a F1 driver should be a mix of carbohydrates, proteins and good fats like olive oil and avocado and should not include pasta, white rice or potatoes, adding that vegetables, brown rice or quinoa, fish and chicken can also be a part of the diet.

The trainer further said that the drivers have to achieve a carefully balanced lean body built for both stamina and strength, for which they need to go through cardiovascular training like cycling, running, swimming, rowing and weight-lifting to keep their weight overall with the diet.