To maintain their performance and achieve excellent results, top-level athletes are required to maintain an impeccable lifestyle, based on a balanced diet, restful sleep, as well as obvious restrictions related to tobacco, drugs, and alcohol. How do these athletes regulate their daily lives to achieve such athletic performances? Let’s take a look.
A suitable diet
The athlete’s diet is balanced and based primarily on slow sugars, which are essential for competition. On the other hand, high-level athletes make sure they do not suffer from deficiencies in vitamins, magnesium, iron, calcium, and other mineral salts. In one day, the athlete must consume :
- 5 portions of fruits and vegetables,
- 4 portions of slow sugars (cereals, bread, and starchy foods),
- 3 servings of dairy products,
- 2 portions of meat,
- 1 water intake throughout the day.
Fatty foods should be avoided as much as possible, during or outside of competitions.
Sleep Quality
Restorative sleep is essential to the lifestyle of a top athlete. Poor quality sleep significantly disrupts an athlete’s performance by reducing their attention span and reaction time. Muscles also need rest to recover. Therefore, athletes must ensure they do not lack sleep.
Certain prohibitions for high-level athletes
- Tobacco, which increases blood pressure and limits oxygen absorption, among other things.
- Drugs impair perception, physical performance, and judgment.
- Limited alcohol consumption: In small doses, outside of competitions, moderate alcohol consumption can be considered.
