One of the most positive mental shifts that an athlete can take when it comes to the foods they eat- is the conscious shift from (a) seeing food as psychological satisfaction- to (b) seeing food as a source of Fuel for their baseball machines.I often tell my players- “hey- you wouldn’t throw bad fuel into your car engine and expect optimal performance would you?”
Player education is a critical element when it comes to nutrition- especially at the Minor League level- working within difficult travel schedules and working around low budget meal options.
Supplements may fill a hole in the players macronutrient needs, but their overall diets play a part in their ability to produce energy effectively- to assist in the recovery of exercise and also in their abilities to recover from injury. This is very well documented in various literatures, and when given the opportunity- a good strength and conditioning coach should be prepared to provide “general” directions and guidelines for his or her athletes.
The key word here is “general”. Without the MS (Nutrition) or R.D. (Registered Dietitian) letters after your name, you are not qualified to “prescribe” macronutrient composition to an athlete.
I can’t tell you how many times I hear a strength coach and others in the clubhouse loosely prescribe a way of eating … “Hey- the 40-30-30” diet is the best for baseball”… (Just like certain exercises are the “best exercise”. Best for what purpose?)
Let’s put it on the line here… We all have opinions- It’s my belief when placed in a position of authority- you should be prepared to qualify your statements through the education your players. One good way to do this- is to defer your nutritional ideas to a dietitian. Have the nutritionist provide a guideline for you to pass on- both when it comes to the food choices and needed supplements for the season.
It’s an extra step few take- but that step is an important one when it comes to fueling your athletes, and a critical part of their health, physical success and career longevity. Done proactively- it will be a part of your success also.
I can’t tell you how many times I hear a strength coach and others in the clubhouse loosely prescribe a way of eating … “Hey- the 40-30-30” diet is the best for baseball”… (Just like certain exercises are the “best exercise”. Best for what purpose?)
Let’s put it on the line here… We all have opinions- It’s my belief when placed in a position of authority- you should be prepared to qualify your statements through the education your players. One good way to do this- is to defer your nutritional ideas to a dietitian. Have the nutritionist provide a guideline for you to pass on- both when it comes to the food choices and needed supplements for the season.
It’s an extra step few take- but that step is an important one when it comes to fueling your athletes, and a critical part of their health, physical success and career longevity. Done proactively- it will be a part of your success also.
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