Originally published July 12, 2019. Last updated October 22, 2024.
The off-season is traditionally a time when motorsports enthusiasts take a break from track activities. That can be a healthy way to rest and recuperate. You could also use the off season to destress about any personal plateaus or frustrations and generally avoid burnout. Then, you can return next season fresh and excited to get back in the driver’s seat.
However, some athletes also miss their time away from their sport. They worry they’ll forget too much of what they learned this season. Or feel anxious they’ll struggle with the same plateaus and sticking points they had this season. HPDE is definitely something most drivers want to progress in, not wanting to be stuck at the same level year after year. And that requires some work.
A good middle ground is to allow yourself to take a solid break while also setting aside time for off-season preparation. Prepping in the off season doesn’t require you to head to the track, yet it can still give you a head start on your upcoming season. Here are five fun ideas for HPDE off-season preparation to get you ready for next season.
1. Self-Assess
A good first step for moving up to the next level in motorsports is understanding what level you’re currently at. Self-assessment lets you reflect on your strengths and weaknesses in an honest and impartial way, so that you can improve on your skills.
Take an inventory of what you are doing well and what you aren’t doing so well, what you feel confident about and what you’re unsure of. Some examples might be tending to understeer at turn-in or struggling with your footwork. The off season can be used to work on your specific weaknesses and solidify your strengths.
2. Crunch the Numbers
Data can be an invaluable tool in motorsports. Everyone from hobbyists to pros use it to improve from season to season, and even from one event to the next. Focus in on just a few parameters, such as speed, RPM, steering angle and throttle position, and you’ll start to pick up on certain patterns that help you hypothesize, draw conclusions and develop strategies to implement at your next event.
If you weren’t already using an HPDE data acquisition system (DAS) this year, the off season is a good time to figure out a solution for next year. There’s a range of options, depending on your interest and budget. Phone-based apps, such as Harry’s Laptimer are one way to go. Hardware systems like Apex Pro, Garmin Catalyst, AiM SOLO and VBOX HD are also popular. Check forums, read reviews and ask around for help determining the best pick for you.
3. Try Sim Racing
Available at every price point, sim racing is great fun and a top pick for keeping your mind and reflexes sharp during the off season. If you’re not familiar, sim racing is short for simulated racing and uses computer software to accurately simulate driving on a real-world track. Racing simulators can be incredibly lifelike, with variables like tire grip, suspension and damage all realistically modeled.
Sim racing is a good place to try new something new, such as familiarizing yourself with the behavior of an unfamiliar car and learning new tracks using their real-life reference points. It can also be used to drill muscle memory skills such as your steering, brakes and throttle. See more about sim racing.
4. Hire a Coach
Athletes in every sport work with coaches to improve their performance, so why not find a coach for your motorsports development? A coach can fulfill the role of an instructor and mentor as well as just being able to have someone offer you impartial assessments and constructive criticism on your strengths and weaknesses. In short, a good coach’s outside perspective can help you quickly improve your driving.
You may be fortunate to find a local coach to help you out. Other options are to research online and look for a reputable coach advertising their services or an organized program such as a driving school that has options which meet your goals in the sport. While you may have to wait for warmer track weather to get started, this time of year is great for looking into your options.
5. Attend an eCourse
While finding an in-person coach and traveling to and from a real-world driving school can have big benefits, it isn’t for everyone. For some it’s the cost, while for others the time commitment doesn’t work with a busy schedule. In this situation, online webinars and self-paced ecourses are a great alternative.
We’re all fortunate that there is a huge online motorsports community today where drivers can ask questions, learn and make connections with likeminded enthusiasts. Search topics or ask questions on your favorite car club or motorsports group’s forum for recommendations of online learning opportunities.
Off-Season Protection
With your track car most likely garaged for the next few months, you may be thinking less about insurance. But track cars still face risks even when you’ve hung up the keys for the winter.
Anything can happen when a car is out of sight and out of mind. Fires, floods and winter storms are common risks to property. Track cars can also be at risk of theft or vandalism by criminals and damage from animals looking for food or a place to hibernate.
Lockton Motorsports offers Off-Track Insurance that can cover your dedicated track car from damage and theft while it’s in storage. This annual policy also covers your vehicle while it’s in transit and in the paddock, with optional coverage for your trailer, too.
Like our other motorsports coverages, this off-season protection is specifically designed to meet the needs of motorsports enthusiasts, with tailored coverage you can count on from a name you trust. Learn more about your options at LocktonMotorsports.com.