Soccer Drill - Food Regimes

Soccer is a fast-moving, high-energy game that demands a lot from its players. Because of this players need to be aware that training doesn’t stop when they leave the field.

Every player needs to carefully consider what he or she eats. Each player will no doubt have different goals, and their diets will no doubt reflect that. However, each diet should have a number of things in common. The diet should be high in muscle-building protein and energy-granting carbohydrates, so as to maximize performance on the field.

Fruits and vegetables should also be considered important, as they help to increase stamina along with the ability to heal quickly (important as even a peaceful game can result in bruises and scraped knees etc). Milk should definitely be considered, as calcium helps build strong bones, very important to avoid some potential breakage injuries on the field. Sugar and caffeine should be avoided, not because of superstition, but because they force players to use reserves that should be used on the field.

For those bulking up, keep in mind that for each additional 3250 calories that you eat, you gain a pound (to determine your ideal intake, multiply your weight by 15 (so a 70-pound boy must eat 1050 daily to maintain his weight, or roughly 2135 calories to gain one pound every three days).

Vegetarians need to be especially careful, as their diet may lack in some proteins and calcium. Supplements are acceptable, but try to find natural sources, such as potatoes, beans, and even cabbage.

Be aware that your diet is as important as working out, and you should do great!