Lewis Hamilton discusses fitness regime: 'Every kilo costs time'

Lewis Hamilton has been discussing the importance of fitness regimes to Formula 1 drivers, adding that he believes it is often overlooked how he and his colleagues need to look after themselves in order to cope with the rigours of the F1 calendar.

In an interview with lifestyle site Highsnobiety, Hamilton also touched on discussed what is keeping him busy away from the track, including listening to Kanye West and getting competitive while playing Gran Turismo.

On fitness techniques, he said: "One focus area that not so many sports cover is the neck — I’m wearing a 10 kg helmet so I need to build strength in this area. Otherwise, a lot of running. I have to watch my weight because every kilo costs time.

"There’s a bit of a public blind spot when it comes to fitness and racing, because people can go play football or do athletics and know that it’s physical. I guess with racing, not everyone can experience it, so people don’t know."

Hamilton is rarely seen without his headphones and has made no secret in the past of his desire to potentially produce his own music in the future. Right now, Kanye is on repetition, adding: "Ye is my favorite, but they’ve all been getting play time. I’ve also been listening to Jay and Bee’s new album, which… erm… I don’t know.

"My dream of those two together — I thought it would be different. It’s still dope, you just think two of the best in the business would create the craziest magic. I wanted more."

The four-time world champion also referenced his gaming habits, adding that he has a soft spot for playing Gran Turismo as well as a few other more popular gaming choices.

He added: "The last thing I bought on the internet would have to be a fricken online gaming headset, so I could play against a couple of my friends — a couple in L.A., one in New York, and one in Sudan.?

"I rarely play racing games, although sometimes we do play Gran Turismo, which is sick when you’ve got the steering wheels and all the right add-ons. Otherwise, it’s Call of Duty or Fortnite."