Soccer pre-game to-do list! (Read capt for info!)
Things I do to prep myself before a game (1-2 hours before)
1.- Drink water, it’s very important to stay extremely hydrated as an athlete throughout the day and before games. Bring a big or more than one bottle of water, but be sure to not drink too much because it can cause pain and other problems while playing. Another thing is if you are gonna drink or have any caffeine or energy booster, is to stay hydrated or it’s only gonna have negative effects.
2.- Caffeine, it’s not 100% needed but I think it’s a fun way to boost my energy before running around. Just be sure you are hydrated as well if you are gonna do this one, as I said before. Personally I like an iced coffee or matcha latte but anything works. I wouldn’t recommend energy drinks but I’ve never tried drinking it before a game so I don’t really have much room to talk.
3.- Eating foods with protein and fiber, or just eating a good and balance meal in general. Honestly I usually get some type of chicken sandwich but lots of stuff works. For example before practice I eat a bowl of yogurt and something like a grilled cheese or quesadilla. You can better the performance of these thing by adding stuff to it or adding side dishes. But all in all a good meal before any type of exercise is good!
4.- “Salty” foods, or electrolytes. I don’t have much to say for this but it’s super helpful to have some salt. Bonus points if it’s apart of tip 3.
5.- Practice, not only does practice make perfect but it’s also good to run around a bit. My coach always told us that it’s better to get your heart rate up before a game rather than let it rest before. Making sure that your heart is ready for you to be running, chasing, and making quick decisions is a must or you won’t be able to preform your greatest.
6.- Not in the slide show but using the bathroom. It might sound silly but it’s super important that you relieve yourself before a game. I have had times when I drank a little to much fluid before a game and had to wait until half time just to use the bathroom but only had about 5 minutes which was a difficult task with the distance. So please do this before games so you won’t have to worry about it during a game!
And last but not least, have fun! It’s super important that you enjoy what you’re doing so you can try your hardest. Thank you for reading!
Preparing for a soccer game involves more than just showing up on the field. Hydration is key; players should aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day, ensuring they're not too full just before kickoff. Alongside hydration, consider the role of caffeine. While it might not be essential, a moderate intake can provide a good energy boost. Foods rich in protein and fiber, such as chicken sandwiches or yogurt, are ideal for sustaining energy levels. Incorporating salty foods is also beneficial as they help replenish electrolytes lost during physical activity. Prior practice is not only crucial for sharpening skills but also for getting the heart rate up, allowing for a seamless transition into the competitive atmosphere. Always remember to use the bathroom beforehand to avoid disruptions during the game. Most importantly, maintaining a fun attitude fosters resilience and performance; enjoying the game is just as crucial as the preparation itself! Following these steps will ensure you're prepared and ready to play your best.