Nutrition for Tennis Athletes
GET READY!
ARRIVE TO THE TOURNAMENT HYDRATED AND FUELED.
- PRE-COMEPETITION MEAL 2-4 HOURS PRIOR TO PLAY;
- SNACK 30 – 60 MIN BEFORE OR BETWEEN MATCHES
PRE-MATCH MEAL: Carbohydrate Rich with Small Amounts of Low Fat Protein
- Grains: Rice, Pasta & Bread
- Fruit & Vegetables
- Protein: Eggs, Fish & Chicken
- Fluids: Water, Fruit Juice & Sports Drink
PRE-MATCH SNACK: Sports Snacks
- Sandwich Or Sports Bar
- Fluids: Water, Fruit Juice & Sports Drink
ON-COURT FUEL (IF NEEDED):
- Bring Quick-Energy Foods, Sports Drinks, Gels & Water
- Pretzels, Jelly Beans, Bars & Fruit
RESTORE
INCORPORATE SPECIAL FOODS TO ENHANCE THE BODY’S NATURAL HEALING
- Fluids! Adequate Hydration Is Key For Tissue Healing
- Fruits & Vegetables Are Essential For Vitamins & Minerals
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids Promote Health & Improve Uptake of Fat-Soluble Vitamins
RETAIN
FUEL FOR PERFORMANCE: PROFESSIONAL ATHLETES HAVE INCREASED NUTRITIONAL NEEDS. EAT 3 MEALS A DAY AND 2-3 SNACKS PER DAY FOR CONTINUOUS ENERGY
- Eat balanced Meals Including All Groups From The Food Pyramid
- Eat At Regular Intervals To Avoid Spikes & Crashes In Energy Levels
- Eat Foods Rich In Calcium & Iron
- Hydrate Continuously To Avoid Dehydration & Cramping During Activity
RENEW
REFUEL – DRINK FIRST!!! REPLENISH ENERGY STORES WITHIN 30 MINUTES TO PROMOTE MUSCLE RECOVERY & BEGIN PREPARATION FOR NEXT MATCH
- Snack With 2 Or 3 Parts Carbohydrate To 1 Part Protein
- Drink! Continue Fluid Intake To Replenish Sweat Loss & Store Up For Next Match
- Consume A Meal Within 2 Hours After Match Consisting Of:
- Carbohydrate (30+ Grams) To Replenish Energy
- Protein (6-20 Grams) To Repair Muscle
- Low Fat