Swift DB1 cockpit frame mods

I have a Swift DB1 that I wear rather than fitting in. I tend to miss allot of shifts and my shoulders, arms and hands, elbows etc get beat up. I was thinking about having the side bars modified for more room. I have been told that this really weakens the DB1 chassis and not to do it. I am just curious what others think that may have done this modification before. I really like the car but sometimes just cant drive well because I am so uncomfortable and cant wait to get out of the car.

Derek