Motorsport

 

Helping a young race driver prepare for competition

Rising motorsport star Blake Angliss competes in the Millers Oils Ginetta GT4 Supercup, in one of the country’s most competitive single-make race series, where being fully prepared for battle is imperative.

Blake has been receiving treatments from the Chiropractic & Natural Wellbeing team for several years, from the early days of his motorsport career, and his wellness plan has developed & evolved in tandem with Blake’s impressive rise through the classes of British motorsport.

The initial treatment plan was based on chiropractic from Dr Ann Ward DC, with the focus very much on helping Blake’s nervous system work to its optimal level under the heavy stresses and strains whilst in a powerful race car. This includes the g-forces commonly associated with motorsport, as well as the repetitive motions of steering and changing gears.

The focus of Blake’s chiropractic care plan is always around the race calendar, with treatments given around 48 hours before each race weekend, a timeframe that Blake and Ann have found works best for him, as it is at this point he feels in the best physical condition and ready to step into his car.

Treatments may also be provided after a race, depending on how demanding the weekend was, when the next race is scheduled, and generally how Blake is feeling.

In the last twelve months Blake has also received massages, along with chiropractic, as part of his race preparation, also provided by CNWB. The type, length and frequency of massage that Blake receives is agreed between Blake and the therapist, Maxine. This tailored approach provides Blake with the most effective care possible, allowing him to go energised and refreshed into a race weekend.

Angliss: “I feel that being physically and mentally prepated for each race weekend is very important. The physical aspect for me is not just about being fit enough to compete at the top of my game, but also relaxed so I don’t feel tensed up in the car.”

Dr Ann Ward DC, principal chiropractor and owner of Chiropractic & Natural Wellbeing, commented: “Blake is a hard-working, dedicated young driver who really listens to his body, and works with Maxine and I to help us give him a treatment plan that works for him. His focus and dedication to his race career is impressive, and for him to commit to an extensive, season-long physical programme of care is a great example of this.”

Blake’s care doesn’t end when the chequered flag is waved at the end of the season. Off-season, a less intensive care package is provided, in tandem with Blake’s individual fitness regime, until the new season beckons and more frequent treatments are required.

Click here to find out more about chiropractic and sports massage.