What runners can learn from Formula 1

It’s Dutch Grand Prix weekend in Zandvoort, and while the world’s fastest cars are flying around the circuit, there’s a surprising amount that runners can learn from Formula 1.

Both sports are about efficiency, control, and finding every possible way to get from A to B as fast as possible.

Here’s how Formula 1 principles translate directly to running.

1. Proper Line Selection

F1 drivers don’t just take any route through a corner; they find the fastest racing line.

For runners, hugging the inside of a bend means covering less ground without running harder.

2. Entry Speed

Go into a turn too fast and you’ll pay for it later. Drivers know it, and runners feel it too.

Enter controlled and you’ll carry momentum, rather than wasting energy to slow down or correct your stride.

3. Apex & Exit

Drivers aim for the perfect apex, then power out of the corner. Runners can use the same idea: cut smoothly toward the inside, then focus on a strong exit to maintain as much speed as possible.

4. Weight Transfer

Cars shift aerodynamic weight to stay balanced in turns. Runners can use posture and body positioning in the same way—staying light and lean slightly into the corner to make a strong exit.

5. Acceleration Out of Turns

Drivers wait until the car is straight before hitting the throttle. Runners should do the same!

Save your push until you’re out of the corner, then build speed smoothly on the straight.

6. Braking Technique

Formula 1 drivers perfect the art of braking gradually—what they call lift and coast.

Runners can copy the idea by easing effort before a sharp turn, instead of charging in and losing all rhythm.

7. Visual Awareness

At 300 km/h, drivers are looking multiple corners ahead. Runners don’t go quite that fast, but scanning the path, reading the terrain, and anticipating other runners makes a huge difference.

8. Tire choice

Choosing the right tire is very important to reach maximal performance. Long stints are driven slower on hard tires, like easy running shoes for long runs.

Peak qualifying times are set on soft tires, the fastest possible tire. Think of it like your carbon racing shoes for fast runs & races.

So next time you’re running a race, think like an F1 driver. Smooth lines, smart speed, and sharp awareness can make you faster without working harder.

After all, whether it’s tires or trainers, the goal is the same: get from start to finish as fast as possible!

Need help finding your next set of tires? I offer personalized guidance through my 1-on-1 consults where we will take a look under the hood to see how we can improve your race car 🏎️

Thank you for reading,

Tim 👟