BMW boys get put through their paces
The programme includes not only a medical evaluation, different gymnastic exercises, reaction time exercises, weight lifting, mountain biking and free climbing, but also sports psychological training and German lessons. At the end of the week, every rider will get a personal fitness and diet plan, so they can individually continue the physical preparation during the next three to four months.
"Basically, we are looking for a complete fitness training", said team doctor Dr. Vincenzo Tota, who guides the BMW fitness camp. "So, for example, we are doing some mountain biking as an aerobic training, or climbing as an exercise for specific muscles. While climbing, you use calves and forearms, like you do on the bike. And you also train your balance. With the weight lifting, we increase the power of the muscles. But in order to also improve stamina and resistance, we do not go for big weights, but for a lot of repetitions with small weights."
"The fitness camp is good fun, but at the same time pretty tough", commented BMW Motorrad Motorsport works rider, Troy Corser. "My stomach really hurts, as we have worked out a lot with exercises for our abdominal muscles. We have done a Cooper test and my fitness level is already quite good compared to the kids, who are about ten years younger than me. I enjoyed the rock climbing most of all. It is about speed, agility and pre anticipation. We all get along together very well and we have great fun. I am now looking forward to our next test in Jerez next week which I am about to go to."
"The atmosphere at the fitness camp is really great", confirmed his team mate Leon Haslam. "I also enjoyed the climbing most of all. We even had to wear our racing helmets while doing it, and this was something completely new for me. The intention was to limit the view and to reduce the oxygen supply. As usual, at this time of the season my fitness is at its lowest level, but I am still very satisfied, as my test results are very good. Now I am looking forward to the forthcoming tests in Jerez and Portimão."
