Dietary requirements for football players are similar to those for most ball games and team sports which are characterized by high-intensity repetitive movements that rely on lactic-aerobic strength and endurance performance. Competitive and professional football players strongly depend on an adequate nutrition due to frequent games and training sessions that require optimal physical condition and energy management, especially during longer tournaments. Nutrition is also of key importance for a quick recovery.
Sports drinks and energy bars are suitable for recreational football players as they are practical and meet their energy demands. A sufficient energy supply is of key importance for competitive athletes as the body’s energy stores are depleted within 90 minutes. Ideal energy sources are carbohydrate-based sports drinks as well as LIQUID ENERGY gels which provide immediate energy without straining the digestion system. Classic sports drinks such as ISOTONIC ensure rehydration during breaks and after games. Football players that experience excessive sweating and have the tendency to develop cramps can benefit from SALT CAPS or MUSCLE RELAX shots. SPONSER®’s energy bars are ideal snacks for travelling or before training.
Furthermore, football players can benefit from creatine supplements which influence the development of both muscle and strength. Creatine supplements should be tested in advance as their effect vary from person to person and may possibly result in weight gain.
SPONSER® also offers highly specialized products, so-called PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZERS. The NITROFLOW PERFORMANCE2 or RED BEET VINITROX contain nutrients that support nitric oxide (NO) metabolism by dilating blood vessels. As a result, microcirculation is enhanced which positively influences performance but also recovery.
Apart from physical performance, cognitive and mental factors such as quick reflexes and concentration also contribute to success in football. ACTIVATOR is a caffeine-based product that targets these factors. Caffeine has been shown to enhance cognitive and mental performance and is taken about 30-60 minutes before the desired time of effect. As sensitivity to caffeine varies from person to person, ACTIVATOR should be tested in different doses at first. SPONSER® also offers MENTAL FOCUS, a caffeine-free alternative specifically designed for cognitive and mental performance.
To promote recovery, SPONSER® recommends shakes with protein and carbohydrates such as RECOVERY DRINK or PRO RECOVERY. They are based on milk or water and are available in single portion sachets or bigger tubs depending on the preference and use. Since football teams have to travel often and go to training camps and tournements, they are at a higher risk of getting an infection. It is thus particularly important to strengthen the immune system and to take precautions against infections. Multinutrient supplements with immunoactive substances such as IMMUNOGUARD along with a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet will strengthen your immune system.
