Water/Gatorade – The absolute minimum consumed should be 128 ounces per day (that’s one gallon, or 16 eight ounce cups)! The drinking fountain rule applies for school – If you pass one, take a drink! Every athlete should have a water bottle with them at all times!
Proper nutrition is essential to athletic performance as well as good overall health.
- A balanced meal of complex carbohydrates, protein, vegetables, fruits, and fluids is best.
- Athletes should eat before and after every workout and race. Eat something light before morning workouts, such as toast with peanut butter and honey, or a banana.
- All athletes should eat at least 8 servings of fruit and vegetables each day.
- During the racing season athletes should refrain from any carbonated drinks.
- “Junk food” should be eaten in moderation and must never replace the essentials of a healthy, balanced diet.
- All athletes need to consume enough calories to maintain their weight. No one should be on a “diet”. There are some athletes; especially those who are experiencing exercise and good nutritional habits for the first time that will experience weight loss. As a parent, if you suspect your child is not eating properly please bring this to a coach's attention.