The notion that NASCAR drivers should be considered “real” athletes often is met with a chorus of laughter — which is extremely unfair.
Don’t believe us? Let Chip Ganassi Racing driver Jamie McMurray hit you with some truth:
From a logistical and competitive standpoint, a NASCAR race and a cycling race have virtually nothing in common. But as McMurray shows here, the physical tolls these events take on the human body are eerily similar.
Temperature and heart-rate statistics aren’t the only evidence you need to know that NASCAR is filled with great athletes. Jimmie Johnson, like McMurray, is a hardcore cyclist, and Danica Patrick perhaps is the most fit driver in the sport.
And these two, like every NASCAR driver, need to stay in great shape. Because contrary to what some people say, barreling around an oval at 200 mph is nothing like driving on a highway.
Thumbnail photo via Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports Images
