I've been swimming for 3 months and my first Intersquad meet is Wednesday. I really have no idea what to expect. Does anyone have any words of wisdom to share? What does everyone eat the day of an afternoon race?
Parents
Former Member
Whitney,
It sounds as if you've gotten nutritional advise from the frat house school of swimming. Save all the food, drink and merriment for after the races! Start the day with a light meal. Eggs are good. And so are any protien based foods. During the day keep away from sugary foods that will only make you feel energized for a while and then result in a drop in blood sugar. You'll feel sluggish and have the urge to munch on more sugar. Snack on some fruit. Even cold cuts are good. Sliced turkey or ham "roll-ups" tuck nicely into a plastic sandwich bag.
It's important to be nourished but not overfed. Sometimes the pre race jitters will make you wish that you hadn't eaten at all. And don't forget to drink throughout the day. Water or seltzer will keep you hydrated which is most important if you are a distance racer. Good luck at the meet.
Remember that you will get out of the meet what you have put into your practices. If you've done a good job in the pool everyday then you can expect a high return on your investment at the meet. It's always fun to see that hard training pay off. Relax and enjoy. And learn from your races.
Whitney,
It sounds as if you've gotten nutritional advise from the frat house school of swimming. Save all the food, drink and merriment for after the races! Start the day with a light meal. Eggs are good. And so are any protien based foods. During the day keep away from sugary foods that will only make you feel energized for a while and then result in a drop in blood sugar. You'll feel sluggish and have the urge to munch on more sugar. Snack on some fruit. Even cold cuts are good. Sliced turkey or ham "roll-ups" tuck nicely into a plastic sandwich bag.
It's important to be nourished but not overfed. Sometimes the pre race jitters will make you wish that you hadn't eaten at all. And don't forget to drink throughout the day. Water or seltzer will keep you hydrated which is most important if you are a distance racer. Good luck at the meet.
Remember that you will get out of the meet what you have put into your practices. If you've done a good job in the pool everyday then you can expect a high return on your investment at the meet. It's always fun to see that hard training pay off. Relax and enjoy. And learn from your races.
