ECG telemetric evaluation in Formula One drivers

Formula I drivers during the race constitute a very particular experimental model because they are submitted to an intense psychophysical activity in conjunction with hard quick latero-lateral and antero-posterior accelerations. The ECG analysis (RR variability, arrhythmias and vagosympathetic system balance), during this particular psychophysical stress, is extremely interesting for characterisation of the sportsmens' training. An ad hoc ECG amplifier has been developed, capable of acquiring ECG signals in high noise environmental conditions. The analog ECG signal is recorded on the on-board data logger. On line and off line correlations with other environmentally recorded conditions during the race are possible by a modified version of the standard telemetry programme, normally used during the race. In particular, the lateral and longitudinal acceleration together with the car velocity are considered. An accurate analysis of the rhythm and RR variability is then performed off-line. First results suggest an intense psychological stress as the engine starts and a correspondence to the road circuit (heart rate ranging between 110 and 180 bpm in normal or bradicardic subjects). The analysis on more than 6 races on two drivers shows a positive linear correlation between heart rate and car velocity, disregarding the climatic conditions.