Alright, so you’re heading to a test day, and now you’re wondering how to take full advantage of it to get better.
Remember, the goal is to get slighlty better each day.
Even just a 0.1% better, because when you add up all those days, then the gains will become large and you’ll have become a totally new driver. A much better one
Here’s how I approach it, and how you can get the most out of your track time.
Not just spinning laps for fun, but really making every lap and every session count.
1. Get Ready Before You Even Arrive
Preparation is key.
- Set 1 or 2 goals for the day. Maybe it’s improving your line in sector 2 or testing a setup change and really feel what difference it makes.
- Pack smart — water, snacks, fruit, mineral salt, drinking bottle and of course your gear.
- Check your kart, tires, brake pads, chain — and bring spares.
Trust me, a prepared driver is a confident driver.
2. Walk the Track — or Run It
Arrive early and walk (or jog) the circuit. I like to do this first thing in the morning — it clears my head and lets me spot:
- Bumps
- Grip changes
- Overtaking zones
Even if you know the track well, this helps rewire your brain and gets you in the zone.
3. Warm Up Your Body
Karting is physical, so don’t just jump in cold. I like:
- Jumping jacks
- Plank and push-up circuits
- Rope skipping
- Core and rib cage stretches
Find a warm-up routine that works for you, and make it part of your ritual.
4. Use the First Laps to Feel the Kart
First session of the day? Before going “attack mode”, focus on:
- Getting the tires up to temp
- Feeling the grip
- Noticing anything weird (engine, chassis, brakes)
This is your warm-up — both for you and the kart.
5. Focus on One Skill Per Session
Don’t try to fix everything at once. Instead, work on one or two things per session:
- Braking deeper with maximum braking efficiency
- Hitting your apexes
- Improving exit traction
Dial in one habit at a time. Small gains = big results.
6. Test Setup Changes — But Stay Organized
Test one thing at a time:
- Tire pressure
- Axle stiffness
- Seat position
- Ride heights
- Camber, caster, toe
Keep notes. Write down what worked and what didn’t — trust me, your future self will thank you.
7. Review Video & Data Immediately
As soon as you’re off track:
- Watch your onboard
- Analyze the data
- Compare with a teammate if you can
The closer you review to the session, the better your memory and feedback will be since you’ll have “hot thoughts”.
8. Simulate Race Conditions
Later in the day, run a full-distance stint. Push like it’s qualifying or a final. It builds:
- Stamina
- Mental pressure
- Focus
And it shows you how the kart behaves under stress.
9. Stay Focused Between Sessions
Don’t waste energy doing random stuff. After your sessions:
- Sit in the shade right next to your kart
- Review your session
- Stay hydrated
Be present. You don’t need to run around or tire yourself out.
10. Cool Down and Reflect
At the end of the day:
- Help your mechanic cleaning the kart
- Review your goals
- Write down what worked and what didn’t
Then start thinking about the next test day. That’s how you build rhythm and discipline.
Final Thoughts
Practice days are pure gold in my opinion — but only if you use them wisely. Be structured, be focused, and treat them like mini race weekends.
You’ll get the chance to do a lot more laps than in an average race day, so you can take full advantage of those.
If you’ve got questions or want to run through your practice plan with me, send a DM. Always happy to help you improve.
Just Senndit
– Alessio Lorandi
