Discussion about If NASCAR Drivers are Athletes

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People who have participated in racing for the past century, have never been universally accepted as athletes. The drivers, especially those in the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) prove this misconception as incorrect with their intense training and stellar performances. Drivers on social media, assert that they are athletes, contradicting other sports stars who insist that they are not. The drivers in NASCAR and all forms of racing deserve to be given the respect of their fellow athletes in other sports. NASCAR drivers are seasoned athletes because of their training and tough race conditions that they encounter every week on the track. A NASCAR drivers’ training regimen throughout the season and during the off-season shows strong evidence that they are athletes. Nutrition is a key ingredient in the success of athletes in other sports, so NASCAR drivers and their crews practice healthy eating choices. On race day, nutrition is especially important for the crews. They eat no greasy foods for breakfast and load up on carbs for lunch so they can last the entire day at the track (Herlocker). Their diet proves that nutrition is key for the success of not only the drivers but for their crews as well. Though food choices may be important for increased driver success, cardio and stamina training is equally as important to last entire races. Drivers, training during the race season and off-season proves vital to their success on track. NASCAR driver Jamie McMurray uses several types of training equipment, combining ellipticals, rowing machines, and exercise bikes to keep in optimum conditions (Risher). Other drivers in other forms of motor sports use similar workouts. Indycar drivers Ryan Hunter-Reay and Duncan ... ... middle of paper ... ...w fitness remains a top priority." ESPN. 6 June 2013. Web. 5 Feb. 2014. . Preidt, Robert. "Upper-Body Strength Key for NASCAR Drivers." MedicineNet. 27 Apr. 2012. Web. 5 Feb. 2014. . Risher, Brittany. "Jamie McMurray's Training Program." Men's Health. n.d. Web. 5 Feb. 2014. . Rittenburg, Adam. "Leagues launch concussion study." ESPN. 19 June 2012. Web. 4 Feb. 2014. . Shaq vs.. 2010. DVD "Sprint Cup Stats." NASCAR.com. n.d. Web. 24 Feb. 2014. .

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