Hamilton goes solo with his bodywork!

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Lewis Hamilton will look after his own fitness program this year, parting ways with the personal trainer who had overseen his preparation in the past few years.

The three-time world champion is taking his physical regimen into his own hands this season, as "a kind of challenge" he is setting himself.

The decision appears a bit surprising given the increased physical demands imposed by the 2017 cars, but the Mercedes driver stepped up his training over the winter on his own.

"Every year you try to improve, but I would say I have taken a good step," he said after last Sunday's Australian Grand Prix.

"My discipline has definitely gone up in terms of my training and how specific I am with my diet."

The Brit concocted for himself a program which caters to his needs obviously, but without any fundamental changes to his lifestyle or motivation following his defeat by Nico Rosberg last year.

"I work hard every year and I have been touring. I have not been home much. I have been enjoying myself.," he said.

"It appears people judge off things they see and in previous years I arrived at the first race just as fit. I always arrive fit and ready. None of those things I do are a distraction.

"I have done just as much this year; it is just I have a job to do. I have made sure the fitness levels are higher than before so for sure I have applied myself better."

Vettel and Hamilton 'looking forward' to close title fight

He also insisted on the fact that he remained as committed as ever towards his job as a Grand Prix driver, and one who is more determined than ever to gain the lost world crown.

"I had a fantastic fight the past few years and last year was the closest I've had. But of course I want to win the world championship more than ever before.

"The hunger… while last year [I felt] the hunger couldn't be any more, it has freakin' doubled. So I am fit and ready. I am going home, for example, after this.

"Usually I stay out in Asia [before the next race in China] but I am going home to get my head down, rest and make sure I come back fighting for the next race because I believe I can win."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.