Jorge Martin is making the most of his time under lockdown in Andorra to learn new things, including starting a course in nutrition. Along with this, the Red Bull KTM Ajo Moto2 rider has also adapted his training routine to the situation, using ingenuity to create gym equipment out of household items. In this interview he talks about the importance of keeping in touch with his team, and how he is keeping prepared for any eventuality.
How is the lockdown going?
“It’s a bit tough for me. Normally, my training routine includes doing a lot of sport outdoors. I really like going out and I don't usually spend time at home, so my house is also quite small. It’s a tough situation for everyone but we have to heed the recommendations if we want to win this battle.
I’m currently in Andorra where, as of this week, they are allowing us to go out onto the streets at certain times and to exercise. This makes things much more bearable.”
Without leaving home, how do you do it to train and stay fit?
“I play sports every day in the afternoon for approximately two hours. I don't have a lot of equipment at home, so I use water jugs or weighted backpacks that help me practice functional resistance training. I am doing well and I feel fit.”
In addition to continuing to exercise, what is keeping you entertained? Have you gone back to old hobby or discovered a new passion?
“Having a daily study and training routine keeps me entertained. In the mornings I have started to study nutrition, because I consider that for an athlete it is very important to know what to eat and why. I also distract myself by watching series, until the afternoon comes and I start training. Setting this schedule and following it daily has been very important for me.”
Before the lockdown you were able to have a preseason and a complete Grand Prix; how did you feel?
"Preseason went pretty well. At the Qatar test I finished second, after having led the way on the second day. Later, at the Grand Prix there, we did a good job - but in the race we had a problem with the front tyre. However, we are ready to win.”
Have you had any kind of contact with your team?
“I keep in touch with them; every two or three days we talk on WhatsApp and we tell each other how everything is going and how we are doing. In the situation we are in, it’s important to maintain a relationship with the team and know that everyone is ok.”
Do you follow Virtual MotoGP™ Races? What are your thoughts on them?
“Yes, I have seen them and they are very entertaining. They make Sundays more enjoyable - although the desire to get on the bike is still there."
Finally, what message do you want to send to people at home and, above all, to those who are working every day to combat the pandemic?
“I would like to send a message of support to both those who are at home complying with the lockdown, and all those people who have to go outside to go to work and to help us. They are crucial to overcoming this pandemic. Hopefully all this will end soon, with the minimum possible negative consequences."