How To Improve Sport Performance

By Peter Kelly


Sports participation makes one healthy and to achieve the best of it, there are certain precautions and rules that must be observed. Seeking means to improve one's athletic performance means increasing one's potential to benefit from the activity he or she does. Some of the benefits that can be derived by taking part in sports include stress relief, ability to set achievable goals and work hard for them.

Athletes can do better in their sports by taking water or any kind of healthy drink. The aim is to improve sport performance by hydrating the body. As one does exercises, the body loses water through sweat and other forms and this has to be replaced. However, only a part of it should be aimed at replacement so that not more than 800 ml should be taken per hour. Athletes who would try to take more than this may suffer from over hydration and loss of sodium in their body.

Just like water, the body also needs to replace energy during sports. However, you are not expected to supply the exact amount of calories you use up. The recommended calorie intake during exercise is 300 calories per hour. Even though you may use up to 700 calories, be assured that the remaining can be generated from body fats. Trying to replace the exact amount you burn can lead to vomiting or nausea.

Furthermore, it is important to avoid taking simple sugars (also known as refined sugars). Sources of simple sugars include sweets, gums and carbonated drinks. Even though this gives some strength, you can only rely on it for a short time. Instead of taking simple carbohydrates, the complex ones are a better and healthier choice for you.

The body also needs protein to replace some lost calories. Unfortunately, if you don't do this deliberately, the body will find a solution by feeding on the muscles. Soy products are recommended during exercise while whey protein should only be taken after sports because of ammonia build up.

Calcium intake is also important for athletes as it helps to strengthen the bones. Apart from building the bones, calcium is also needed for proper contraction of the muscles. Rich sources of calcium include yogurt, soy milk, fortified orange juice, sardines, soybeans, spinach and milk. Athletes who are lactose intolerant can do well by taking calcium supplements.

Athletes must also learn how to take adequate rest. Some of the athletes in the world who have consistently won medals have said that sleep is one way by which their exercises can be absorbed by the body. Resting after training is a nice thing to do. An athlete who sleeps the normal eight hours before a sport can take better decisions during the main event.

Since sleep makes you prevent mistakes, it also means that you will be able to avoid injuries. It improves your coordination so that you can always do the right thing at the right time. Sometimes, athletes can avoid certain injuries by taking quick decisions such as to dive or remain stationary when an opponent is coming. Resting well before a match will bring this coordination naturally to you.




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