Your part before the start
As your son enters his first weeks of training there are a number of areas that may be of concern to you as a parent. How can you assist them? What would you expect?
How should a student-athlete prepare and deal with training and competition in terms of eating habits, sleep and mental attitude?
As a rule, don't change any aspect of the normal daily routine. Everything should remain the same in terms of home responsibilities, appropriate eating, sleeping, and social habits.
Parents should be aware that a common result of initial training may be muscle soreness. Any athlete and intensive training could be subject to injury. All concerns should be directed to the coach and / or trainer and / or physician.
A well-balanced diet is an asset for any individual and especially athlete. Any nutritional changes should occur gradually. On meet days high fat and fried foods, eggs, and carbonated and acidic beverages should be avoided. Take advantage of easily digestible foods and low quantities. Water intake should not be limited. Generally, the last intake of food should be 3 to 4 hours prior to the start of the race. Recognize that each individual has different nutritional needs. Go into a race on the hungry side. ( The opposite can be detrimental.) We always like to “hydrate” (drink water) before all meets.
How should a student-athlete prepare and deal with training and competition in terms of eating habits, sleep and mental attitude?
As a rule, don't change any aspect of the normal daily routine. Everything should remain the same in terms of home responsibilities, appropriate eating, sleeping, and social habits.
Parents should be aware that a common result of initial training may be muscle soreness. Any athlete and intensive training could be subject to injury. All concerns should be directed to the coach and / or trainer and / or physician.
A well-balanced diet is an asset for any individual and especially athlete. Any nutritional changes should occur gradually. On meet days high fat and fried foods, eggs, and carbonated and acidic beverages should be avoided. Take advantage of easily digestible foods and low quantities. Water intake should not be limited. Generally, the last intake of food should be 3 to 4 hours prior to the start of the race. Recognize that each individual has different nutritional needs. Go into a race on the hungry side. ( The opposite can be detrimental.) We always like to “hydrate” (drink water) before all meets.