While most NASCAR drivers suffer from exhausting heat during summer races, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. remains resilient, attributing his endurance to his upbringing in Mississippi. The native of Olive Branch credits years of growing up in the humid South for his ability to handle soaring cockpit temperatures when many others struggle with dehydration and fatigue.
As heat continues to challenge drivers on long, caution-free race runs, Stenhouse stands out by embracing rather than resisting the conditions. His unique tolerance provides an edge in a sport where temperature management can significantly impact performance and focus.
Why Stenhouse Chooses to Avoid Cooling Suits That Others Depend On
Amid increased concerns over the physical demands of NASCAR racing, especially during the hottest months, many drivers rely heavily on cooling suits to combat the extreme heat. However, Stenhouse has taken a different stance by opting not to wear these suits at all.
He shared on social media his frustrations with the cooling suits, stating,
“This is why I don’t wear one, they break more than they work. Hot water on you is no good.”
—Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
On SiriusXM Radio, Stenhouse further explained his comfort with heat comes from his origins, saying,
“I think for me it was growing up in hot and humid Mississippi, I love the heat and I hate being cold, so it’s just been who I am for a long time.”
—Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
His trust in his body’s natural ability to withstand high temperatures contrasts with many drivers who depend on cooling technology to stay alert during the tough conditions inside the car.
Training Techniques That Prepare Stenhouse for Extreme Heat Endurance
Stenhouse credits his childhood environment for acclimating him to tough heat conditions. Mississippi’s hot and humid summers were an early form of heat training that now benefits his racing career. Despite noticing that summer heat feels even more intense when returning to Mississippi now, he believes this background plays a critical role in his preference for high temperatures.
He added on SiriusXM Radio,
“I will say, being gone from Mississippi and then going back in the summer a couple of times, it is hotter than I remember. So maybe that really did play a factor into me liking the heat.”
—Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
Beyond natural tolerance, Stenhouse employs intentional physical training designed to prepare his body for the heat and humidity experienced during races. This includes sauna sessions and workouts in a non-air-conditioned gym several times a week. He shared,
“I do sauna training as well, I work out in my gym with no AC two or three days a week. So I do things that help with being in the car when it’s hot and humid.”
—Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
His method differs from many competitors who primarily rely on technological solutions like cooling suits, which circulate cold liquids to help regulate body temperature during long events.
The Growing Challenge of Heat in NASCAR and Stenhouse’s Advantage
NASCAR cockpits often reach extreme temperatures that test drivers‘ stamina and concentration. The traditional cooling shirt with tubes circulating chilled fluids is considered standard equipment, yet its effectiveness and reliability have drawn criticism, especially during recent incidents like Kyle Larson’s Chicago mishap.
As cockpit heat intensifies and driver fatigue becomes a bigger issue, Stenhouse’s heat conditioning gives him a significant competitive advantage. His ability to maintain mental sharpness and physical endurance under conditions that wear down others marks him as uniquely prepared for grueling summer races.
Looking forward, as summer races continue on the NASCAR calendar and discussions around cooling suit performance persist, Stenhouse’s resilience rooted in his Mississippi upbringing and specialized training could influence how other drivers approach heat management in the future.