It sounds silly, but you want it in the light lemonade or even clear shade. The water will keep your body hydrated and running. While playing, your body cramps, and your performance dives. Every basketball player is in charge of his body. They can also irritate your stomach and make it hard to perform your best. When talking about the food replacement for carbs, which is an awesome option for those who train hard, this one from Now Sports works for me. Turkey breast would ⦠Do not drink coca cola and those energy drinks. This includes amino acids and glutamine. To optimize performance a basketball player should eat a pre-game meal that is high in carbohydrates to fuel high intensity efforts on the court. Taking food and liquids represents the human biotic need to compensate for spent energy and lost fluid during daily activities. Before a Game: Carbohydrates If you are a seasoned athlete, avoiding these foods will be no problem. The moments every basketball player is waiting for. With more than 2 hours before game time, I suggest having a more substantial meal. With every great game, you need equally great food. If your urine is dark and has a pungent smell, you are certainly not drinking enough water. Basketball games take a lot of energy; therefore, you need to make sure that you have enough energy to get you through the basketball game. If you want to make sure your muscles and nerves work properly and also looking to save money, I saw they offer Gatorade in powder form on Amazon. If you have something that helped you improve your game, and you think itâs a valuable piece of advice, feel free to share it in the comment section of a relevant article. Hope you learned what to eat before a basketball game. Being a dairy product, it provides you with a good source of calcium, a significant mineral to both bone and muscle strength. After you learn the basics, youâll want to check our article on the best pre-game meals for basketball players. In this video Iâm gonna be showing you guys the 5 best foods to eat before any physical activity/event for the best possible performance. Your breakfast could consist of bagels, cereal with low-fat milk, whole fruit, pancakes, waffles, and/or oatmeal. My stomach just canât handle it. There is an assortment of foods listed that can be prepared to make a delicious meal. These times are essential for deciding when to eat. It was especially visible that itâs helping when I was lacking energy. The big game is tomorrow. If you found this helpful, help us out by sharing this post! It can also prevent injury. Did you find this post helpful? What are you going to eat tonight? Protein Shake. 2 or More Hours Before Game Time âEat a bigger meal with plenty of fluids, especially water,â says Turner. All of the items listed below are foods basketball players should eat before a game. What to Eat Before a Basketball Game. Eating unhealthy fats before a game can slow you down. Different teams have approached the pb&j in different ways. The body digests proteins more slowly than carbohydrates, so a basketball player should only include protein in her pre-workout meal if she is eating two to three hours before the tryout session. Eating yogurt as part of a balanced diet is important and it can provide you with a very healthy and beneficial breakfast before a big game. Even the smallest amount of alcohol can impair your abilities. VOLT FITNESS Owner, Tom Ardese, discusses some tips to follow for your child or teen's next basketball game. Are you trying to figure out if having a cheeseburger or a salad right before your game will be detrimental to your performance? This article can help you never to have that issue again. Read on to learn more about what you should be eating to maximize your potential energy boost. Then you may also like, How to Move a Basketball Hoop Filled with Sand. A player must also choose protein from lean sources such as soy, nuts or low-fat milk; he should avoid fatty or greasy fried foods, which can slow digestion and leave an athlete feelin⦠During the Game⦠And thatâs coffee. This way, basketball players enter enough fluid, but also enter 60 to 100g of carbohydrates. (Read Hydrate Properly Before Basketball Games.) Turkey Breast with Red Peper and Pasta with Small Tomatoes, Garlic. How Can You Get More Energy Before a Basketball Game? Because of this, itâs essential that nothing breaks their form.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'improvehoops_com-banner-1','ezslot_14',107,'0','0'])); All factors are equally important; sleep, activity intensity, and a pre-game meal, and need to be kept under control. You should be incorporating energy increasing foods into your regular diet, and knowing. The afternoon before your game, eat a light lunch. They never freeze all the way and thaw quickly, making them easy to eat â but watch out for a brain freeze! For example, if you weigh 130 pounds, your weight in kilograms is 59. At the same time, the actions of a basketball player are mainly anaerobic: sudden sprints, high jumps and long shots. That brings me to another drink basketball players often consume, some even more than Gatorade. If you would like to drink a sports drink for energy, make sure you only have the 8-ounce serving size, however, if you have previously eaten properly, it won’t be needed. This includes protein, complex carbs, simple carbs, and even healthy fats. Especially food that is portable and easy to eat while watching the basketball games. However, allow ample time before the actual game’s start for your food to digest and settles. âFoods like peanut butter, nuts, fruits, and low-fat greek yogurt can be tolerated with closer to 60 minutes before game time. eval(ez_write_tag([[336,280],'improvehoops_com-box-4','ezslot_11',106,'0','0']));While the activity of anaerobic energy system is emphasized over certain periods of the game, the aerobic actually keeps you going. Although you can eat before a basketball game, you must be mindful of the food you are looking to eat. We will also provide information on what you should drink as well as what some of your favorite NBA players are having on gameday. Higher sodium is OK because athletes sweat much of that out during games. Aside from what you eat, you will also need to pay attention to how much you eat. You should consume fluids constantly. These foods will aid in boosting your energy and ensuring your performance. Only rare genetic freaks can get away with eating junk and drinking alcohol and not suffer the consequences. This will help you to exercise harder and to stay filled for long. Ideally, you should eat two to four hours before your basketball game, as well as between games if you're in the middle of a multi-game playoff tournament. You’ve just gotten out of class, and your friends are going for burgers. Fast-burning carbohydrates such as white rice, pasta and potatoes can be eaten before a run to increase energy but should be eaten in moderation. But thatâs not crazy at all, no matter what you think. Or Charles Barkley, who ate pizza for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In the hour before exercise, smaller amounts of carbohydrate are recommended (~100 calories). It is advised that the basketball players eat a meal rich in complex carbohydrates (~ 1.5 grams of carbs per 1 lb of body weight), 3-4 hours before the game. You can eat brown rice hours before an intense practice or workout routine. It’s important to remember that your game preparation starts long before the day of the basketball game. Healthy fats include avocados and nuts and can be added to a basketball playerâs daily meal plan to add to his energy reserves; when your body runs out of carbohydrates during aerobic activity, it will begin to use fat as an energy source. These snack options are great for boosting your energy and can even be eaten throughout the game day activities to ensure you are replenishing your energy as it depletes. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'improvehoops_com-leader-2','ezslot_9',112,'0','0']));Regarding pre-workouts, the only one that was working for me was Cellucor C4. The last thing you want to do when playing basketball is to have something fresh on your stomach, especially something substantial when you play. If you multiply 59 by 4, you would need about 236 grams of carbohydrates in your precompetition meal. Pre-game basketball meals are important, but it is also necessary to take care of the diet during the game. This way Iâm able to dose the carbs better, and it has no flavor, so I mix it with all kinds of fruit or coffee. However, there are a variety of snacks that can give you the boost you need. Itâs critical that we donât eat something we are not accustomed to. He has been a huge basketball fan for decades, watching thousands of basketball games through the years to learn the ins and outs of the game. Each team has adopted its variations; however, before games, players have the sandwich as their pre-game meal. I noticed feeling more energized, and more capable to make it through the day without naps. Keep reading for the answers to all your questions and then some. You should eat whole grain foods high in carbohydrates. Basketball is a sport that requires players to run and remain in constant motion for extended periods of time. It isnât good to get full right before playing sports. We also answer other frequently answered questions on basketball here. Does Planet Fitness Have a Basketball Court? Itâs the same with the game of basketball. Itâs good to make a list of foods that come into consideration, to ensure their purchase in advance, and always have a backup variant if unpredictable things come to fruition. However, you pay for it later at the game. The opportunities for an individual and a team to demonstrate skills and knowledge. This includes things like turkey omelets, scrambled eggs, and even yogurt. If youâre a basketball player, you should know your diet plan in advance. Find out what foods do NBA players eat before a game for energy to fuel their body and use it to improve. Hoops Addict is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Frozen Grapes - Add a twist on traditional grapes by putting them in the freezer before snack time. Not only is chicken an excellent food which can come together in many forms. Not drinking enough and consuming a âheavyâ meal or meal near the start of a game may lead to stomach problems during the game and reduce your ability to play as best as you can. For instance, I love coffee but drinking it before the game is out of the question for me. Your meal should include carbohydrates for energy and protein for an appetite suppressant. We have provided you with a multitude of information from actually answering the question of if you should eat before a game to what to eat before a basketball game. Food is vital for ensuring we have adequate amounts of energy and stamina. Diet planning is based on knowing the gameâs playing time. eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'improvehoops_com-leader-1','ezslot_1',109,'0','0']));eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'improvehoops_com-leader-1','ezslot_2',109,'0','1']));Donât play or practice on an empty stomach, because through the breakfast we fill our nutritive supplies and compensating what we spent during the night. what to eat before a basketball game is essential to have the most power. Good luck! How Many Calories Does Playing Basketball Burn? In that case, they can turn to beans as their source of protein. eval(ez_write_tag([[728,90],'improvehoops_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_7',113,'0','0']));One of the most popular drinks of that kind is Gatorade. They also allow you to have more reserved energy during your game. As your game gets closer, you will want to increase your water intake the night before. One good food to eat before basketball games are chicken. If possible, pick carbs with a lower glycemic index (sweet potatoes, leafy greens, oatmeal). If your big game is coming soon, make sure you’re stocked with exceptional items for protein and even snacks like almonds, which you can eat throughout the day. Four hours before your event, eat 4 grams of carbohydrates for each kilogram of your weight. That means something. Basketball differs from many exercises in that it requires both aerobic and anaerobic ability. Before your game, you will want to eat lightly. We are here to help you plan out your meals before your next basketball game. One scoop of whey protein powder (or the protein of your choice) mixed in a blender ⦠A basketball player must be able to perform on court for extended periods of time, therefore requiring adequate cardio. So, to answer the question, yes, it is okay to eat before a game. Other protein-rich foods include: Complex carbs help in increasing your body’s glycogen storage. The best thing you can do for yourself throughout your game day is to make sure you are properly hydrated. After 20 years of keeping electrolytes in check, you still see it on the bench in every basketball game. Not only is chicken an excellent food which can come together in many forms. You should also eat way before your game while drinking a good amount of water. Drinking too much of drinks with concentrated sugars can cause cramps and discomfort during gameplay. Help us to help other ballers. Listen to your body but hold on to principles. What to Eat Just Before the Game It is advised that the basketball players eat a meal rich in complex carbohydrates (~ 1.5 grams of carbs per 1 lb of body weight), 3-4 hours before the game. Eggs. We have also listed some of their benefits to help you understand why they are so good. This includes foods like pasta, conventional breakfast cereals, pizza, and white bread. If you’re worried about what should a basketball player eat for breakfast, then look no further. Only children games are often held before noon. We know that some basketball players who are vegetarians may not want to depend on animal protein. Fatty or greasy foods can weigh you down before a game. ⦠This is one of the most recommended, as it provides players with large amounts of protein. Most games are on in the afternoon or evening. The last thing you want is a stomach issue before kickoff, so lower fiber, more processed and non-whole grain items are allowable. he doesnât go below 5 cups of coffee on a game day, Caffeine Pills for Focus, Alertness & Energy. Basketball is a strenuous activity, and therefore it’s essential that you are not only well-rested before your game but well fed. Basketball and dietary experts, including NBA basketball superstars, offer their own suggestions on choosing the best foods for a top-notch game of hoops. Foods high in carbs will provide you with the energy to keep you going in the game. The options listed below are great have the night before a game or as a part of your game day meals. Everything you do the night before a basketball game is essential to making you perform at your best on the court. For example, The Trailblazers provide their team with PB&J sandwiches made from organic ingredients and cut into halves. Every sport is different, so the diet must be accessed individually. When considering what to drink, you should keep your sports drinks in moderation. Eating healthy carbohydrates at every meal, like fiber, whole grains, lentils, fruits and vegetables boosts energy and keeps energy levels high for endurance. The main role in this belongs to carbohydrates and fats, stored in the muscles or delivered by blood flow to the muscle. Examples of what a meal and snack would look like pregame for 150 lb player with ⦠It’s 3 pm on game day, and you’re struggling to figure out what to eat. We hope you can refer back to this article as your nutrition guide for basketball players. Refined carbs include a multitude of typical snack foods. Then you may also like our post on how many calories are burned playing basketball. There are certain carbs that promote increased energy enhancement and there are other carbs that arenât as effective. Nuts, like almonds, peanuts and cashews, provide protein and healthy fats. Beans. Bananas, apples or carbohydrate tile are all good options here. Several NBA players have shared their pre-games eats, giving you an ultimate look into their eating lives. It’s encouraged to eat before a game. A basketball player can benefit from eating a small portion of protein prior to a tryout, but she must choose her protein sources carefully. Your body, your decision. The pre-game meal should also be low in fat and fiber to help aid digestion and limit the chance of in-game gastrointestinal distress (upset tummy and ⦠Basketball is an intense sport that requires excessive amounts of energy. Basketball is a strenuous activity, therefore having food in your stomach when playing is not ideal. This is one of the most recommended, as it provides players with large amounts of protein. Two to 3 hours before your event, eat 2 to 3 ⦠You may also want to increase your water intake on the morning of the actual game. You should be incorporating energy increasing foods into your regular diet, and knowing what to eat before a basketball game is essential to have the most power. Your urine color is a great way to determine if you are getting enough water around game time and even after that. If your basketball game is in the morning, you will most likely not be interested in eating pasta. 4. Pregame meals are really a two-part program. The pre-game meal should also contain foods rich in nutrients, such as vegetables and fruits. You have more time to digest and relax. Players should avoid empty calories from high-fat and sugary foods such as potato chips, cheeseburgers and cupcakes. It’s normal to want to grab a snack on game day. If possible, pick carbs with a lower glycemic index (sweet potatoes, leafy greens, oatmeal). The lack of any substance will prevent a basketball player from using the maximum of his body. eval(ez_write_tag([[728,90],'improvehoops_com-leader-3','ezslot_12',110,'0','0']));Watch with fats and proteins here, as they digest slower. Whey protein contains essential nutrients and vitamins to replenish your energy. Not doing so, could result in those glycogen stores running low sometime in the second half of the final game, contributing to physical and mental fatigue. During and after this meal you should also drink 1/3 to 1/2 liters of water. Pre-Game Snack (20 to 30 minutes prior to tip-off) Peanut butter & jelly sandwich on whole wheat bread; Gatorade. We are here to answer that question and many more. Strange diets may have worked for them, but for most of you â poor nutrition is suffocating your game. How Many Hours Should You Eat Before a Basketball Game? Just consider this your nutrition guide for basketball players. eval(ez_write_tag([[336,280],'improvehoops_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',104,'0','0']));Today weâll talk about the principles you need to apply in a pre-game meal to gain energy and play like a pro. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Apple Slices - Put this healthy option in to-go bags for an after-game snack that provides important vitamins and antioxidants. You mustn’t eat too close to the games start as different food have different digestion times. These are foods whose fibers and nutrients have already stripped away and therefore provide you no benefit. There are so many combinations that players can make from these foods; it’s up to you to get creative to make something nutritious and filling. That makes sense. You will also want to make sure you are hydrated and def throughout the day. Protein Rich Foods One good food to eat before basketball games are chicken. On game days, focus on eating clean foods and staying hydrated. The research has shown that aerobic and anaerobic energy systems play an equal role in covering energy demands of basketball. Carbohydrates take 3-4 hours to digest, whereas things like sweets and proteins may take longer, some say proteins will take almost 7 hours to digest. However, it is not something you want to drink on game day. You maybe heard of Rod Strickland, a former NBA guard, who enjoyed consuming hot dogs before and during the games. Everyone knows that the burger diets are a joke if you want a lasting career. Foods which have a lot of complex carbs include: Nuts are a nice quick snack or a great addition to things like salads. Pasta, bread, fruits and vegetables are all great foods to eat for your pre-game meal. If you are hungry before a game, eating too little would make you feel dizzy and weak. The meal should be focused on higher carbohydrates and moderate protein while low in fat. Imagine this. If you’re going to eat before a game, it is best to make sure there is a window of a few hours before the game. Because of this, what players eat during the day before a game is very important. Depending on what level of basketball you play, alcohol may not even be an option. I have 2 basketball games back to back tonight at 6:15 and 7:15-- i can't eat before because i hate having food in ur stomach running around what snacks will be good for me to eat ⦠More substantial portions will take longer to digest and could leave you sluggish before the big game. This way, the body consumes significant amounts of energy-rich substrates. If you’re conflicted with if and what you should be eating, we will answer just that. Different foods may have different effects on your body. How Long is Each Quarter of a Basketball Game. Foods you'll want to stay away from are french fries, hamburgers, bacon, and other foods that are high in fat and protein. To replenish those glycogen stores, eat a lot of carbohydrates (starch) the day before the final game. eval(ez_write_tag([[728,90],'improvehoops_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_8',105,'0','0']));No matter how you eat on a daily bases, there are days when you just need to watch out, cut those fries, and put the McDonaldâs addiction on a side for a while. Make sure you eat in moderation so that you don’t become sleepy or lazy. Pasta with Sliced Tomatoes, Garlic, and Turkey Breast with Red Pepper. It will prevent the occurrence of unwanted effects such as reduced endurance (due to lack of carbohydrates), decreased concentration and reduced basketball skills. To figure out your weight in kilograms, divide your weight in pounds by 2.2. Current NBA coach, and former Orlando Magic point guard, Darrell Armstrong, has once said that he doesnât go below 5 cups of coffee on a game day. There are several foods you should not eat before a basketball game. During a practice or a game, a basketball player burns between 600 â 1000 Calories per hour. The food we enter divides six groups of nutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. The Bucks offer a buffet of sandwiches for their team, which include different variations of peanut butter and jelly. Top 5 Reasons Why Basketball Players Wear Masks, Basketball Hoop Height by Age (and Why Itâs Crucial for Development), Basketball Greats Who Never Made It: The Heroin Addict with 60â Vertical, Screening in Basketball â Why, When & How. Itâs suggested that the basketball players drink about 1/2 liters of water or sports drink before the game (1.5 to 2 hours before) and 50 grams of carbohydrates ~ 1 hour before the game. Carbo-loading techniques have changed a bit over the last few years. If your urine color is natural bright, then youâre doing fine. These sandwiches are an excellent option because of all the benefits they provide. It would make you feel too tired and full. What Should You Drink Before a Basketball Game? Why not? Eager to spend these last moments with your friends, you tag along and eat greasy food.