Food during archery competitions

We all need to eat in order to be able to perform at top level, but that can be easier said than done. During competitions you will often be faced with a multitude of decisions regarding food, in this post I hope to be able to answear some questions regarding how I think about food during competition and what I recommend so you can follow my lead!

In theory my philosophy around eating in relation to archery competitions can be summarized in one sentences: Eat what you normally eat and what nourishes you.

In reality though this can be very hard to do, so to help you I will be giving you some examples of how I usually think when competing

Breakfast: During most competitions I tend to stay at a hotel, and one of my favourite things in the world is hotel breakfast, but during competitions I usually put some more thought into what I eat at breakfast. Sure those pancakes with syrup might look good, but will they keep me full and energized during a competition? Most likely not. Therefore I tend to try and eat the same things I almost always do for breakfast, sandwiches and eggs or yoghurt and sandwiches. I know that my stomach will tolerate this food and that it will keep me energized through the day.

Lunch: At most competitions lunch is served from some kind of cafeteria meaning it usually consists of sandwiches or hot dogs. I know from experience that the food also sometimes runs out and that ques can be very long, therefore I almost always bring something to eat for lunch. Cold foods like pasta salads or leftovers will usually work great, eat something you like and that will keep you full of energy.

Dinner: Dinner is usually had after the competition, and after competitions I usually focus on recovery. This means that I tend to eat something carb heavy to restore my energy deposits before the next day. Foods like italian pasta or thai dishes with rice or noodles will work great for dinner, but avoid fried or super fat heavy foods that will leave you feeling bad the day after.

Snacks: During competition it is important to eat regularly, I tend to eat almost constantly during competitions to keep my energy up. Remember that during competitions it is your job to never feel hungry, if you get hungry you have gone too long without eating and won't be able to perform at your best. Great snack foods can be things like bananas and nuts that will keep your blood sugar steady, but avoid things like twix and candy that will cause blood sugar spikes and dips.

Now I hope you know some more about archery nutrition, thank you for reading.