NUTRITION FOR JUDO

Judo is an explosive sport requiring technical skill and flexibility. Athletes train from a young age and can easily compete into their mid -thirties. Athletes compete in light weight and heavy weight categories; therefore making weight before competitions is very important. Nutrition can play a significant role in the success of a judo player’s health and competitive performance.

Common nutrition issues include:

Healthy eating, fluid and energy requirements
Preparation for competition days
Eating during competition days
Disordered eating behaviour
Low body fat Levels
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies – calcium and iron

Enhance your performance

Nutrition & Hydration
I have often asked the athletes that I coach - "Are you willing to start a match and give the other competitor a wazari head start before you begin?" All of them of course reply "no". Strangely enough though, this is the type of advantage that you are creating for your opponent when you do not fuel your body with the necessary nutrients and fluid intake that it requires to maximize performance in competitive situations. Whether it's showing up for the tournament dehydrated from excess weight loss, failing to replenish the level of glycogen that your body needs to perform, or simply consistently making poor food choices you are giving your opponent a HUGE advantage before the match has even begun. Being aware and making smart choices are the key to being successful in this area. More