In order to perform your best at game time, your body needs the right nutrition and hydration. Follow these tips from UPMC Sports Medicine — before, during, and after your next game — to help maximize your athletic performance and avoid potential injury.
Visit UPMC Sports Medicine Nutrition Services for more on how to fuel your body the right way and get the most out of every practice and game.
Start three days before games and eat a little more at each meal.
Increase your pre-game meals by adding:
This will help your body store more fuel for upcoming games.
Drink 1 water bottle or 20 ounces of fluid 1 hour before practices and games.
Be sure to drink at least 1 water bottle for each hour of practice and competition.
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Eat every 3 to 4 hours, beginning with breakfast and a morning snack. Eat a snack before practice, such as yogurt, a granola bar, small bowl of cereal, or bagel with a little honey.
Muscles require carbohydrates to function properly and avoid cramping.
Ideally, carbs should take up two-thirds of your plate at all meals.
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Proteins are not an ideal fuel source for sports.
They should make up about one-third of your plate at all meals.
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What you eat and drink after the game are just as vital as before and during.
For ideal recovery, eat or drink something within 15 minutes of finishing a practice or game.
Try:
Visit UPMC Sports Medicine Nutrition Services for more on how to fuel your body the right way and get the most out of every practice and game.