Coaches Guide to Nutrition: Building a Performance Plate
August 5, 2025
Proper nutrition is key to athletic performance, and it all starts with how you build your plate.
Athletes need at least three balanced meals a day, plus snacks, to fuel training, competition, and recovery.
But knowing what — and how much — to eat can be confusing.
That’s why we’re breaking down the “Performance Plate” model to help guide your choices.
Whether it’s a rest day, intense practice, or game day, this simple visual approach ensures you’re getting the right mix of carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and colorful fruits and vegetables at every meal.
Information above is excerpted from UDIM’s A Coach’s Guide to Nutrition.
Coach's Guide to Nutrition: Hydration
June 10, 2024
Stay hydrated during exercise. Encourage athletes to take at least 2-3 sips (2-3 ounces) of water every 15 minutes.
Exercising for more than an hour? Sports drinks can help replace fluid, carbs and electrolytes.
Some athletes do not feel thirsty while they are active, so regular water breaks are important. As always, if they feel thirsty, let them grab a drink. If they feel dizzy, confused or nauseated, they should STOP and tell a coach or teammate. This may indicate they are dangerously dehydrated. Access to water should NEVER be used as a punishment.
Athletes should also look for these symptoms in teammates and remind them to hydrate when necessary. For a more individualized recommendation or for athletes with a cramping history, refer them to a Registered Dietician Nutritionist (RDN).
Dehydration Warning Signs:
- Cramping
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Confusion
Information above is excerpted from UDIM’s A Coach’s Guide to Nutrition.