Steering

(Courtesy of Mark Kendrick of Bespoke Driver Training)

I use a variety of steering techniques (inc. fixed-grip, pull-push,

rotational and palming), choosing the one which best suits the

circumstances. For small changes in direction I favour fixed-grip, as no

other method offers me any advantage, and this technique allows me to keep

both hands on the wheel feeling for grip. For larger changes in direction I

favour pull-push over fixed-grip, largely because it's more likely to keep

my hands near the stalks (I might need to indicate), and, to a lesser

degree, away from the airbag. For manoeuvres that require large amounts of

lock to be applied quickly (such as manoeuvring in tight spaces with other

drivers waiting), I'll use rotational steering or palming, as these methods

are quicker than pull-push.

Key principles include: smoothly and effortlessly getting the required

amount of lock when you want it; mindful of the need to reach the steering

column stalks mid-hazard; keeping hands and arms away form the airbag (when

airbag deployment is possible, so not when manoeuvring at 5mph in a

car-park); awareness of the fact that we are each biomechanically unique

(what's comfortable/intuitive to me won't necessarily be

comfortable/intuitive to you).

When drifting (on track) I'll sometimes let go of the wheel completely,

using the self-centring castor action...