ABSTRACT

Good nutrition is crucial in any athlete’s quest to reach peak performance. At all levels of competition, whether for a local recreational league championship or in preparation for the Olympics, athletes seem to be constantly searching for ways to improve their performance and gain a competitive edge. This often includes trying the latest dietary fad or nutritional supplements. However, dietary strategies for training and competition should address the athlete’s need for nutrients as influenced by age, fitness, level of competition and intensity of training, environment, time of competition, duration of play, amount of time between competitions, and type of activity. Moreover, an effective diet for the athlete also includes the same general dietary recommendations as for the non-athlete, and these are intended to promote good health.