186 – Dr. David Ferguson: the Science of Motorsport Human Performance

186 – Dr. David Ferguson: the Science of Motorsport Human Performance

Author: Ross Bentley: Performance & Race Driver Coach March 25, 2021 Duration: 1:10:13

On this week's episode of Speed Secrets Podcast, I am joined by Dr. David Ferguson! Dr. Ferguson runs the Spartan Motorsport Performance Lab at Michigan State University and is the author/editor of The Science of Motorsport book. Topics range from dyslexia and diabetes to heart rate variability and the vision techniques of the very best drivers. We also talk about how equal females are to males in racing, and nature versus nurture. Ultimately, it's all about how you can perform better as a driver. This is one of my all-time favorite episodes! 

Dr. Ferguson's Speed Secret: Treat your body in the same way as you do your race car.

Dr. David P. Ferguson earned his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Nevada Las Vegas, Masters Degree from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte, PhD from Texas A&M University and has postdoctoral training in cardiovascular physiology, nutrition and pediatrics from Baylor College of Medicine. He has worked in racing for over ten years with the top teams in NASCAR, IndyCar, Formula 1, and IMSA.

Spartan Motorsport Performance Lab: Automobile racing is one of the largest spectator sports in the world yet there is less than 60 research articles ever published on the physiological stress of driving a race car.  We are currently working with NASCAR, IndyCar, Formula 1 and IMSA racing teams to better understand the strain placed on drivers and pit crews during competition. Then using established training and nutrition programs we are already increasing both the performance and safety of these elite motorsport athletes.

Check out Dr. Ferguson below!
https://education.msu.edu/kin/smpl/
@DrDavidF13
@msu_smpl


There’s a fine line between simply driving a car and truly connecting with it at the limit, and that’s the space where Speed Secrets Podcast lives. Hosted by renowned performance coach Ross Bentley, each episode feels less like a formal interview and more like a candid garage conversation with some of the most insightful minds in motorsport. The discussions go deep into the tangible details that make a difference on the clock: the nuanced art of trail braking, how to interpret data and video to find tenths, and the subtle interplay between steering input and throttle control. Whether it’s dissecting the ideal line through a complex corner or understanding how a specific car setup change affects handling, Ross and his guests break down complex concepts into applicable knowledge. You’ll come away from this podcast not just with inspiration, but with concrete tips and a clearer mental framework for your own time at the track, be it for competition or personal mastery. It’s a resource built on decades of professional experience, designed for anyone who wants to think more deeply about the craft of high-performance driving.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Speed Secrets Podcast
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