Fitness For Sports And Athletes

Keeping fit is all about remaining healthy, free of any disease or ailment and not getting disabilities in the pursuit of one’s daily routine for making a living. Sports Athletes in all fields of activity are prone to injuries, which may affect them temporarily in the physical aspect but may do permanent damage to the professional careers as a sports athlete.

Traveling, different types of food at different places and climate changes may affect their general health also. Of course, these days all sports athlete are advised a particular diet and regimen of exercises to keep themselves competition fit.

Their sporting and the resulting earning careers are of short duration ranging from 5 to a maximum of 15 years, in a few rare cases. So, they are usually careful in these matters and keep themselves in a physically fit condition.

The recommended diet varies from person to person and activity to activity. But, generally it is a high carbohydrate diet, which is considered most suitable for athletes supplemented by plenty of fluids. It depends on the body weight also.

For a person with a body weight of 60 kgs, 360-600 gms of carbohydrates are required. A fluid requirement of 400-600 2hrs before an event and 150-350 ml whenever possible has to be met. Minerals, vitamins and fibers are to be taken as per the advice of doctor or dietician. Proteins are required for building of muscles but carbohydrates and fluids are the most important aspects of a sports persons diet.

Plenty of cereals sports drinks, fruits have to be taken. A non-vegetarian food like beef is a good source of protein and vitamins but the high fat content is taken into account. Fish and chicken are also high in protein content. An average of 12 – 14 gms per 30 kg body weight is recommended. Lean meat, fish and poultry and low fat milk are part of the diet.

Regular exercises as per the regimen must be done to keep fit. The purpose is to build up strength, stamina and suppleness. Arm circles, trunk twists, leg flexes, basic and advanced push-ups, squat jumps, sit up, walking and jogging etc have to be done under supervision and watchful eyes of the trainer.

Injuries vary from muscle cramps to fracture depending on the sport. Some may need hospitalization also. An athlete or sports person who leads a disciplined life with proper diet and exercise can hope to last long in the field.