Nutritional Guide for Success in Junior Academy Setting
By Karen Harrison, BGGA Director of Health & Athletic Development
ATTENTION STUDENT ATHLETES: Developing sound, healthy eating habits is a critical component to overall health and not surprisingly, optimal sports performance.
How many of you have finished a round of golf feeling fatigued, thirsty, perhaps with an accompanying lack of focus, slow reactions or a feeling of heavy limbs? Did you feel that this negatively affected your performance? And have you ever considered the effect of proper nutrition and hydration during an event that has you walking 7-8 kms / 4-5 miles over four to five hours and burning anywhere between 2000-2400 calories?
Proper nutrition and hydration before, during and after your round of golf are as important for optimal performance as your equipment and should be considered a part of your preparation.
Like a car, your body won’ t go very far without fuel. Meal timing, the balancing of food groups( proteins, carbohydrates and‘ good’ fats) and proper hydration for the conditions, all are vital ingredients in providing for what is essentially an endurance event. And the research is also clear – the consumption of carbohydrates( CHO) and water WILL greatly increase your overall performance. So, don’ t forget about them in your preparation!
At BGGA, we have experts on staff who will assist you in how best to navigate the choices you will face on a daily basis and create strategies for healthy eating. Educational sessions throughout the course of the year will help you to further develop these skills. Bring a good dose of self-discipline to the table and together let’ s tackle some of the questions and guidelines outlined below