Do you have a child who plays youth or varsity sports? When it comes to sports, there is more to it than talent and practice as nutrition also plays a vital role in an athlete’s success. Whether they are a budding youth athlete or a varsity star, their body needs the right fuel to perform at an optimal level.
We are going to explore our top five sports nutrition tips when it comes to helping these young athletes excel on their athletic journey.
Prioritize Balanced Meals
One of the fundamental principles of sports nutrition is to maintain a well-balanced diet. This means incorporating a variety of macronutrients and micronutrients into daily meals.
Carbohydrates are essential for energy, and we believe in loading up with complex carbs such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Proteins are crucial for muscle recovery and growth, so lean meats, dairy, and plant-based protein sources are essential. Healthy fats are also a key part of a balanced eating plan, which could include avocados and nuts to support overall health and energy.
Proper Hydration
Dehydration can significantly impact an athlete’s athletic performance. Athletes lose more fluids through sweat, so it is very important to hydrate before, during, and after activities.
Water is one hundred percent the best choice! There is no substitute for this. Any ‘hydration’ drink that is high in sugar or uses artificial sweeteners should be avoided. However, if an athlete participates in a safe workout, consider a sports drink with electrolytes to replenish lost minerals. Pay attention to body signals, such as thirst, and aim to drink enough to maintain clear urine.
We offer an amazing No Slack Just Hustle Hydrate supplement for athletes with minimal sugar and no artificial sweeteners, but as we stated, water should still be your first choice!
Timing is Everything
When an athlete eats matters, just as much as what they eat. Before a game or practice, they should consume a meal or snack rich in carbohydrates and some protein about 2-3 hours before the activity starts. This will give the body enough time to digest and convert those nutrients into usable energy.
After a game or practice, focus on post-game recovery with a mix of protein and carbohydrates to replenish glycogen stores and promote muscle repair.
Use Supplements Wisely
In addition to our No Slack Just Hustle Sports Academy, we also have a Supplement line. However, we believe that an athlete’s nutrition should come from whole food sources, and supplements should ONLY be used if they are unable to meet their suggested nutrition intake.
Common supplements for athletes include Whey Protein, Creatine, and Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAA’s), which are all a part of our No Slack Just Hustle Supplement line. We also offer discounted bundled packs to help you save!
It is imperative though that if your child or you want to begin using supplementation, to ALWAYS consult with a sports nutritionist or healthcare professional before incorporating these into your routine.
Listen to the Body
Every athlete is unique, and what works for one may not necessarily work for another. It is vital to listen to the body and adapt the nutrition plan accordingly. If feeling sluggish, there may be a need for more carbohydrates for energy. If struggling with muscle recovery, there may be a need for more protein intake.
Our team of experts suggests keeping a food diary to track daily intake and how performance is affected, to be able to make adjustments as needed.
Sports Nutrition and More with the No Slack Just Hustle Sports Academy
Proper nutrition is the key to unlocking an athlete’s full potential to help ensure a consistent high-performance level. As a part of your No Slack Just Hustle Sports Academy Membership you will have access to trainers who are certified in Sports Nutrition, as well as having access to courses specific to this topic and more!
Our exclusive membership offers unparalleled access to expert coaches, tailored training, and valuable resources that can help your athlete reach their full potential.
While results may vary and the path to success may be unique for each individual, one thing remains constant: Our dedication to empowering athletes and fostering their development on and off the field.
We are here to guide, support, and inspire you and your athlete! Together, we can embark on a journey that’s fueled by passion, hard work, and most importantly, NO SLACK, JUST HUSTLE! We look forward to you and your athlete being a part of our community to help them in their athletic journey!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general guidance and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice. Before making any significant changes to your diet or incorporating supplements, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare professional or a sports nutritionist. Individual dietary needs and responses may vary, and this blog does not constitute personalized dietary recommendations.