Feb 01, 2015 | wbarker | 1570 views
A Note From The Trainer's Side Of The Bench
"You want results? Then eat like it!"
"Food is fuel!"
"You only have the energy that your fuel has given you!"
"You are what you eat. So don't be cheap, easy or fake!"
"Eat good, feel good, play good!"
"You can't expect to play like a million bucks if you eat from the dollar candy menu!"
These quotes are from unknown authors, but all seemed to hit the mark. Going into the play-offs, you need to think about how far you want to go. You all have the ability to be the WOAA Champions!
Remember to eat some healthy carbs. approx. 3 hours before game time. (Pasta makes ya fasta!) Then top up your energy levels about an hour before the puck-drop with some natural sugars such as apples, bananas, oranges etc. There should be no greasy, high fat, or artificial sugary foods before a game. After the game, you need some protein to repair your well used muscles. Sometimes, an ideal meal is difficult to be the reality because of a start-time. A bagel and chocolate milk on the way to the game are WAAAAAYYYYY better then french fries at the arena! You are not going to feel well or play well with heavy, greasy food in your belly while exerting yourself. Your entire coaching staff expects all of you to skate your butts off, (except for #35, you have to stand on your head!) in order to do so, you need to make healthy choices.
A sugar rush from a chocolate bar or donut will quickly wear off just when you most need it! They may also cause dehydration and cramps. Complex carbohydrates will give you long lasting energy in a natural way. Some suggestions are pasta, rice, potatoes (potato chips don't count), starchy vegetables, breads, cereals, pancakes, fruits, and natural fruit/vegetable juices. Also be sure to keep hydrated, water or smoothies are great choices. (NO pop!)
I realize we should have discussed these expectations early in the season, but better in time for the play offs then not at all. These points are only being made because they need to be. You are all on the rep team and need to always try your best, and that starts with what you choose to eat.
Be healthy, go hard! And remember, "Half the game is mental. The other half is being mental!" -Paul Coffey