Track record
Racing driver Danny Watts likes pizza and beer and thanks his genes for his trim size. -ST
Sun, Oct 04, 2009
The Straits Times
What do you do to keep fit?
I am a member of my local gym and I try to be there at least four times a week. I have a special training programme formulated for me by the Renault F1 team when I started in their junior programme back in 2002. Even today, I still use it as the basis of my fitness regimen.
The programme combines cardiovascular activity (like running, rowing machine and cycling), stretching and weights. I concentrate on one type of activity each session.
What is your secret to looking so fabulous?
Looking fabulous? Are you sure? It is a balance really, nothing mind-blowing. I believe it is important to attain balance in life; it is about eating well, drinking plenty of water, making sure you are enjoying life and, of course, plenty of sleep.
Has there ever been a time when you were not fit and fab?
Not really. I am very lucky that all in my family are on the small side, which helps. At school, I was always into sports. At 18, I started serious training in the gym. I began karting at 12 and by the time I was 18, I wanted to move up to the next level with single-seater cars.
With single-seaters, the faster the car, the more G force (a force acting on the body as a result of acceleration or gravity) it creates and the fitter you need to be. There is so much impact on your body, especially the upper torso.
What is your diet like?
I eat a lot of pasta and salads. However, I must admit I love pizza and Italian food and I do indulge in a few beers now and then.
What are your indulgences?
As a kid, my vice was chocolates and I used to eat bucket loads. However, I seem to have lost my sweet tooth now. I am not really a dessert man. My main indulgence would be enjoying a Chinese takeaway occasionally. In Britain, Chinese food can be quite greasy.
Do you count your calories and why?
I am nearly 30 and I must admit I have become a bit more conscious about counting the calories.
Do you take supplements?
I take a multivitamin and mineral tablet every day, but nothing more than that.
How many hours of sleep do you survive on?
Ha ha, before I became a father, I would have about seven to eight hours of sleep a night. However, like most parents with a young baby, that has currently been reduced to about five to six hours.
How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?
I am lucky because my work is so varied and with no full-time job, I am able to spend a lot of time with my fiancee and son. As I love what I do, it is easy to get a balance.
What do you do to relax?
Spend time with the family. Being a father for the first time is just incredible; an amazing experience. Sometimes we head off to a nearby beach, which is great.
What are the three most important things in your life?
Family, motor racing and football ? in that order. I am a mad Oxford United football fan and I have even incorporated their team colours in my racing helmet design.
Would you go for plastic surgery and why?
No, never. I am a strong believer in what you see is what you get.
Do you think you are sexy?
Ha ha, no.
| Danny Watts, 29 |
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This article was first published in Mind Your Body, The Straits Times.