Be the Complete Racer: Seat Time

Number 7 in a countdown: Whether real or virtual, there is simply no substitute for getting laps to learn a track.

Cyclists have a not-so-elegant acronym for the best way to get faster on a bike, and it's short for time in the saddle. There's no acronym for the auto racing equivalent, seat time, but, just like time in the saddle, it's the best way to get faster. That's particularly true if you're trying to learn a track or a car. Obviously, the ideal situation to get acclimated before a race at a new track is a test day at the facility. But that's not always feasible logistically or financially. So then it's time to look into the next best thing. Video is a great alternative, and you can find online video laps of just about any track in North America. If you race Spec Miata, one of the most popular racing classes in the country, there's a good chance you'll be able to view the track from very familiar surroundings at roughly the speed you'll be driving it...