Braking Points Explained: How to Brake Faster on Track

What Are Braking Points?

A braking point is the location on track where you begin braking for a corner. Choosing the correct braking point allows you to slow the car efficiently while maintaining control and balance.

Braking too early wastes time. Braking too late usually results in missed apexes or instability.

Why Braking Technique Matters

Good braking allows you to:

• Carry more speed into corners
• Maintain stability under braking
• Hit the correct apex consistently
• Improve confidence lap after lap

Strong braking technique is often the difference between average and fast drivers.

How to Find Your Braking Points

Start with conservative braking points using:

• Trackside markers
• Kerbs or marshal posts
• Changes in tarmac colour

As confidence increases, braking points can be moved gradually deeper.

Straight-Line Braking First

For most track day drivers, braking in a straight line is the safest and most effective approach.

Focus on:

• Firm initial pedal pressure
• Smooth release as speed reduces
• Keeping the steering straight

Advanced techniques come later.

Threshold Braking Explained

Threshold braking is braking at the limit of available grip without locking the tyres.

Key principles:

• Progressive pedal application
• Sensitivity to tyre feedback
• Smooth release before turn-in

This technique maximises braking efficiency.

Common Braking Mistakes

• Braking too late
• Stabbing the brake pedal
• Carrying brake pressure too far into the corner
• Inconsistent braking lap to lap

Consistency is more important than aggression.

How Braking Changes by Circuit Type

• Fast circuits: Stability is critical
• Technical circuits: Accuracy matters more
• Downhill braking zones: Require earlier braking

Understanding the circuit helps refine braking points.

Braking on Track Days

Track day conditions change constantly. Be prepared to:

• Adjust braking points as tyres heat up
• Brake earlier in wet or cold conditions
• Leave margin when traffic is heavy

Smart braking leads to safer and faster sessions.

Learn More with Track Guides

Braking zones vary by circuit. Track guides help you understand where braking matters most.

Explore circuit guides and professional track photography on LapSnaps to see braking techniques applied in real conditions.

👉 Silverstone Circuit Track Guide

👉 Brands Hatch Track Guide

👉 Techniques: How to drive a race track faster

👉 Browse all race track galleries