Webber's recovery ahead of schedule

The Australian has been out of action since breaking his leg in a cycling accident at the end of last year - but is set to get back into the cockpit during Red Bull's first test with their RB5 at Jerez in Spain next week.

And after employing some unconventional cryogenic treatment to help his recovery, Webber is upbeat about the progress he is making.

"The results over the last few weeks have been incredible," Webber told Red Bull Racing's official website. "We had a really good week last week, so we're really positive... dare I say it, we're probably a little bit ahead of schedule."

Webber's treatment sees him use cold chambers for three minutes at a time - something which he thinks helps his overall well-being too.

"I've been doing it for three weeks now," he explained. "You go from a normal, ambient room temperature into a chamber of -50°C for about 30 seconds and then for another three minutes into -130°C.

"It's very good for your general well-being, your immune system and apparently it's good for cellulite. Not much of a worry for me...but it's very good for the whole body."

Webber admits that he will be unable to gauge how well his recovery has got him back in shape for driving until he actually gets in the cockpit - although says there are no doubts he will be sorted for the season opener in Australia.

"Driving is not like playing tennis. A tennis player can practice before actually playing a game. I need to get in the car and go and do it to find out about things like the vibration jolts. Although I may do some karting beforehand."

He added: "I've really worked hard to get in this position. There's been some stuff in the press that I won't be 100% fit for Melbourne which pissed me off. I will be 100% ready to do my job."