Tyler Reddick shares experience with Toyota altitude training program as he prepares for the challenging Viva Mexico 250 race, scheduled at a high-altitude road course next weekend. Competing with the 23XI Racing team in Mexico, Reddick and several other drivers have enrolled in Toyota’s specialized training to adapt to the extreme altitude of 7,349 feet above sea level.
Specialized Altitude Training for NASCAR Mexico Race
With the upcoming Viva Mexico 250 taking place on a fresh road course far above sea level, manufacturers have adopted targeted approaches to equip their drivers. Toyota Performance Center designed an eight-week program, allowing their drivers to train under hypoxic, or oxygen-reduced, conditions to better handle the unique environment.
Not every Toyota driver engaged fully with the program, but Reddick opted for the complete regimen, which included sleeping and resting in low-oxygen environments. His commitment to the protocol aimed to boost his stamina for Mexico, though it brought some personal challenges at home.
“Doing this has been fun. The setting, the atmosphere, is all a little bit different, so you’re testing yourself in new ways. I will say one side effect of it is that my wife hasn’t been super happy about me sleeping in a hypoxic environment, especially at the later stages of her pregnancy. For me, I’ve definitely noticed a difference from start to where I’m at now.” —Tyler Reddick, Driver
Reddick recently finished 13th in the FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway and has secured sixth position so far this NASCAR Cup Series season, tallying 460 points for 23XI Racing.
Team Focus Amid Legal Distractions
As Reddick continues his rigorous preparations, he and teammate Bubba Wallace face uncertainty surrounding an ongoing 23XI Racing lawsuit. Despite the legal distractions involving NASCAR and the team’s owners, Reddick and Wallace emphasize their focus on racing and supporting each other during this period.
The duo performed strongly in Michigan, with Wallace taking fourth place and Reddick securing sixth. When asked about the effect of the legal situation on his mindset, Reddick stressed the importance of maintaining his focus despite off-track issues.
“The only comment I have is I’m going to keep doing my part to try and show up as prepared as possible and keep winning races. I mean, the leadership, owners are keeping me updated on everything that’s going on. Like I told them, I’ve got to stay focused on what I can control – that’s my preparation, that’s, hopefully, my proper execution on Saturdays and Sundays.” —Tyler Reddick, Driver
Questions about a possible move to open-wheel racing were met with Reddick’s reluctance to reveal plans, as he deferred the discussion to his legal representatives. For now, his primary concern is the NASCAR road ahead.
Looking Forward to the Viva Mexico 250
Returning to the track for the Viva Mexico 250, Reddick seeks to leverage the benefits from Toyota’s altitude training. The preparation with Toyota’s staff, coaches, and fellow drivers could offer a decisive edge as drivers face extreme physical demands at high altitude. The outcome of this challenging race will not only affect the NASCAR Cup Series standings but may influence future approaches by teams and manufacturers for high-altitude events.
