What to eat before and during gymnastics competition

March 11, 2012

Gymnastic sports demands proper nutrition to support their muscles and concentration in performing routines; question is, what to eat before & during gymnastics competition?

Selecting Food Groups: What to Eat Before & During Gymnastics Competition?

A gymnast needs a proper diet plan in order to maintain his or her shape and cut for the competition. Sheer practice of routines is not enough for a gymnast to effectively showcase his or her talent. Frequently, athletes tend to forget what to eat before & during gymnastics competition. Hence, poor performance and loss of concentration is expected.

We know that there are several diets gymnasts follow; mainly these may be composed of a low fat and carbohydrate, high protein diet; vice versa.

Here are some of the foods we recommend on what to eat before & during gymnastics competition:

What to Eat Before & During Gymnastics Competition: Carbohydrates Food Group

Proper eating habits are essential before a gymnastics competition. Eat breakfast that consists of bread, orange juice, cereals and milk. These are simple carbohydrates; it can be readily digested by the body rendering these foods enough to supply energy to the body for some warm ups and last minute preparations.

What to Eat Before & During Gymnastics Competition: Protein Food Group

For those who would like to cater a high-protein diet: eat fish, lean meat, and eggs. These proteins can benefit well to your body as they can be digested to repair your body muscles. Once your muscles and worn out tissues are repaired, you can get back into shape in no time. Maximize your efforts by consuming these protein products. If you’re not much into meat, you can eat or drink soy products; these are good sources of protein, too.

What to Eat before & during Gymnastics Competition: Drink lots of Water

Nothing beats a well hydrated body. Replace the fluids you lost during your training, but don’t overload your body with water too much.

It is best to consume fluids with rehydrating components like Gatorade; electrolytes help a gymnast’s body to function properly.

Energy drinks should not be your staple drink since it contains harsh chemicals that could damage your body in the long run; it upsets the balance of sugars in your body.

What to Eat Before & During Gymnastics Competition: Side Dishes

Reward yourself for a great performance with fruits, bagels and yogurts. This can help your body make up for some energy stores that were depleted during your practice or performance. Crackers and cheese should also be a great deal of snacks too.

What to Eat Before & During Gymnastics Competition: Reminders

Discipline is the best weapon against food disorders. You may get help from a doctor if you feel that something is wrong with your eating habits. This can greatly affect your performance if not treated at an earlier time.

Shy away from sweets, caffeine, and fried foods at the meantime; these aren’t healthy for the body of an athlete who relies on pure muscle strength, endurance and stability. These can also increase body weight, therefore tipping off one’s routine.

Once these good eating habits are established, it can become a great habit for life.