Rational nutrition as a factor of recovery in the training process of young football players

Abstract

The article examines rational nutrition as an important factor influencing recovery processes in the training system of young football players aged 14–15. The relevance of the study is determined by the increasing intensity of training loads in modern football and the necessity of ensuring effective recovery mechanisms for athletes during a period of active physiological growth and development. The aim of the study was to determine the role of rational nutrition as a factor of recovery in the training process of young football players aged 14–15.

A complex methodological approach was used in the research. The study included analysis and generalization of modern scientific and methodological literature, pedagogical observation of the training process, questionnaires for athletes and coaches, and methods of systematization and interpretation of the obtained results. The research involved 30 young football players aged 14–15 and 5 coaches.

The results of the study revealed that a considerable proportion of young athletes do not follow the basic principles of balanced nutrition. The most common problems include irregular meal schedules, insufficient protein intake, and inadequate hydration. Such nutritional deficiencies negatively affect fatigue levels, concentration during training activities, and the speed of recovery after physical loads.

During the research, basic recommendations for optimizing the athletes’ nutrition were introduced. These included maintaining a regular meal schedule, increasing protein consumption to support muscle recovery, ensuring sufficient carbohydrate intake as the primary energy source, and maintaining proper hydration. After implementing these recommendations, positive changes were observed in the functional state of the athletes. In particular, the level of fatigue decreased andrecovery after training loads improved.

The obtained results confirm that rational nutrition is a significant component of the recovery system in youth football.