Sportsscienceandmedicineteam.docVIP

NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT NUTRITION FOR PERFORMANCE HOCKEY This chapter on nutritional issues covers the following: Overview What’s a balanced diet? Carbohydrate Protein Fat What to eat before a match What to eat after training/competition Fluids and hydration BOA statement on Creatine BOA statement on use of supplements OVERVIEW All great athletes plan their diet as diligently as they plan their training regimen. Neglecting to fuel the body correctly and provide all of the essential nutrients it needs may contribute to a sub optimal performance in training and competition. As an elite athlete it is important that you have a good understanding of the types of foods and fluids you should be taking on board to enable you to perform at your best. What fuel? Hockey is a sport that consists of a variety of exercise intensities ranging from sprinting to standing still. Fuel for the bursts of intense activity is provided predominantly by carbohydrate and fat is used during the less intense parts of the game. Research shows that muscle glycogen is the most important fuel in team sports. One of the major causes of fatigue during Hockey is depletion of muscle glycogen. Studies have shown that the use of glycogen is more pronounced in the first than the second half of the game. Furthermore it is found that players with initially low glycogen stores cover a shorter distance and sprint significantly less, particularly in the second half than those players with normal muscle glycogen levels prior to the match. If blood glucose levels drop during the game this may also lead to a loss of concentration and tactical skills, and a deterioration of team interactions. So carbohydrate clearly plays an important part in the diet of an elite Hockey player, but it is also essential to remember that the body needs a total of approximately 40 nutrients for good health so the balance of the diet as a whole must be carefully considered. What’s a balanced diet? A balanced diet will provide you with