A key component of any athlete’s daily routine are their diet and lifestyle choices. This is no different for university athletes, despite the challenges they face. But, could athletes and coaches make more use of the key research that goes into nutrition and performance at their very own university?
Former Leeds Beckett American Football coach Dale Bottomley said: “I think it is really important to find as much of a balance as possible. We do our own bits of research, we have had some masters students come in from their nutrition courses to do some workshops or one off talks with the team, but nothing more formal than that. It is something we are keen to develop more and more.”
Leeds Beckett’s American football team is viewed by many as one of the best in the country, and in a sport where body composition and fitness is so important. Nutritional advice from experts and professionals could be the difference maker.
“There’s no denying that if they take their nutrition seriously, they will be better players, put in better performances and probably win more games.” Bottomley explains, further highlighting their interest to improve.
Across the country, every year universities compete in BUCS leagues that are set up by the British Universities and Colleges Sport, the national governing body for university sport in the UK. Each year the competition seems to get tougher, as universities try to gain the upper hand on their competitors in any way possible.
Sports Nutritionist at Leeds Beckett University, Dr Debbie Smith said: “As a student athlete there are a lot of other influences on someone’s dietary intake, there’s nights out and probably a lot more alcohol than a professional level rugby player.” One of the many challenges student athlete’s face in finding the right balance.
