Nutrition & Hydration
Nutrition is important to any elite sport and athletes must take care when planning their diet to ensure enough energy is provided to their body and that they eat for recovery to reduce fatigue (AIS Sports Nutrition, 2009). It's essential that all food groups are included in the diet and that enough nutrients are consumed to maintain health (Cara Zolinsky, 2012).
Full hydration is vital for optimal performance in training and competition so water should be consumed prior to, during and post exercise and throughout the day. Failure to do so can negatively affect decision making, concentration, muscular endurance and the way the athlete feels. A drink bottle must be brought to competitions and training and you should never wait until you feel thirsty to drink water. This can mean dehydration which can be dangerous (PBA Swimming Nutrition Information, 2011).
Following the recent successful workshop with local dietitian, Zoe Smith, follow the link below for your information and reference.