Off Season Training And Nutrition Advice
The exams are upon us and the holidays are just around the corner or have even started for some. With this in mind we have drawn up some advice sheets for younger players who will be keeping fit over the summer months. There are tips on healthy eating from the Ireland team nutritionist and on fitness and exercise from the IRFU Fitness Education Manager.
The summer is officially here with the start of the exams, but for those young players who want to keep fit and eat healthy over the summer we have drawn up some top tips factsheets.
IRFU Age Grade Manager Hendrik Kruger believes that young players should be given the best advice possible on training and nutrition in the off season as well as when they are with their clubs and schools.
“There are so many pressures on young players these days. Right now many of them are facing into exams and that can be very stressful,” he said.
“We hope to provide players with the best advice on nutrition and training that will keep them healthy and active – not just for rugby, but for life.”
Nutrition For The Off Season
Ruth Wood Martin, IRFU Nutritionist, works with the Ireland squad as well as the Ireland Under-20s and Ireland Under-18s, providing the best advice on nutrition and healthy eating for players of all ages. She has put together a Summer Nutrition Factsheet for younger players.
Ruth is currently on tour in New Zealand with the Ireland squad but before she left, she spoke about the importance of the summer period.
“It is really important that you take advantage of this time, to give your body a chance to be recharged for the beginning of next season,” she said.
“Nutrition plays a part here too, and this information aims to outline how you can get the most out of what you eat in order to stay in good shape.”
Download the Nutrition Factsheet – click here.
Fitness For The Off Season
“The off season is an important part of the season that last between four to six weeks where the player concentrates on rest and recovery from the previous season,” said IRFU Fitness Education Manager Des Ryan, who has drawn up an advice factsheet for young players.
“The factsheet is not about punishing runs or hours in the gym, it is about the most appropriate and fun way to lead into your rugby season.”
Download the Fitness Factsheet – click here.
Related Links –
Eat 2 Compete – a guide to nutrition for young players
Supplements and the young rugby player – guidelines and recommendations