It’s like an open secret among athletes, once you understand the concept of sports nutrition and apply its principles in training, the difference between winning and losing is like night and day, and it’s that simple. But how many athletes truly understand this concept between nutrition and performance and are willing to endure another disciplined program in the face of upcoming events?Apparently, not many athletes regard nutrition as a necessary component to striking goal in the arena, and dismal performances have resulted. Moreover, coaches are being blamed for their contribution in this thought-process-their nonchalance in emphasising the significance of a nutrient-dense diet that balances with training–is being passed on within sporting groups.The Link between Sports Nutrition and Increased PerformanceSeveral scientific studies have been conducted over the years that link enhanced performance with a balanced diet, and the results are exciting for serious minded competitors.Studies reveal that any athlete who is willing to follow the guidelines of nutrition in the proportions required–consuming a diet that caters to the person’s training and physiology–is likely to have a lead over the person who does not.Sports Nutrition definedThe study of nutrition is nothing new and dates back over 200 years; however, the discipline of sports nutrition is relatively new.This interdisciplinary field has a rather complex curriculum, rooted in scientific formulations, but at its most basic, focuses on dieting principles that enhance athletic performance.Sports nutritionists are experts who counsel athletes on how best to achieve their athletic goals using nutrition; they are an athlete’s best friend owing to their nutrition plan.5 Reasons for Sports Nutrition in Competitions1. Utmost Gains from TrainingA well-planned diet has the biggest impact on training simply because it supports the rigors of a workout program, promoting mental and physical prowess. A good tailor-made diet allows adaptations to the work-out stimulus and increases skill and endurance.2. Enhanced Recovery between EventsNutrition affects every process in the body involved in energy production and exercise recovery. When a competitor is taught the guidelines for optimal nutrition that matches body composition, and is sports-specific as well as appropriately timed, healing and recovery occurs at a faster pace.3. Reduced Risks of InjuryInjury is the enemy of athletes. A serious enough injury like a hamstring or groin insult can set back a contender a whole season or longer. In addition to taking precautions with proper warm up and conditioning exercises, the risk of injuries is also minimized with quality nourishment received into soft tissue cells. Muscles, which enable movement, depend on a well-nourished diet to reduce spasms, cramps, tears and other similar injuries.4. Consistency in Achieving High Level PerformancesAs numerous studies have shown, nutrition affects performance in a positive way. The eating and drinking habits of sports persons influence how well they train and execute their skills at desired levels, at all times.5. Confidence in Feeling Fit to ExcelMental fitness is just as crucial as physical fitness. Confidence is that added element which gives athletes the bravado and rights to vanquish their opponent. Successful completion of training-acquiring technique, agility, and power-backed by a diet that caters to fitness needs, allow that moment of glory to draw near.The margin between victory and defeat is very small among equally fit athletes in fierce competitions. Therefore attention to detail will determine the outcome; sports nutrition provides that eating strategy for winning.