As an athlete, it's important to pick the right meal before a big game! You want to pick something that is right for you but also something that includes all of the different food groups! Do you prefer something more hearty? Do you prefer something lighter? We took a survey of 16 random college athletes and these were their 11 favorite pre-game meals.
1. Salad
Salad had more votes than any other food on this list. It is an easy and light dish to eat before a game. It is full of nutritious ingredients and is a great way to get your essential vitamins.
Image source: A Couple Cooks
2. Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is another YUMMY option to get in carbs and protein. Some athletes need to carb load the night prior. Eating a pasta dish is a great way to do so!
Image source: Mom's Dinner
Related: Carbohydrates: What They Are, and Why Athletes Need Them
3. Smoothie
Smoothies are a great source of nutrition before a big game! You can pack in a ton of vitamins, veggies, and fruit to help you play at your best!
One of the athletes in the poll stated, “If it's right before a game I always like something small like a salad or even a smoothie!”
Image source: A Daily Smoothie
4. Chicken Wrap
A chicken wrap is a great way to get in some extra protein and carbs!
Image source: Apple
Related: Food for Thought: Why Pizza Is the Best PreGame Meal
5. Chicken
Making sure you prioritize your protein intake is important before a big game! A piece of chicken is a great way to get that extra boost of protein in your system.
Image source: Bake it with Love
6. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is one of the most healthy grains you can consume! Eating oatmeal before a game is a perfect way to fill you up so you have plenty of energy to last you hours!
Loyola University tennis athlete, Chandler Harmon, says “oatmeal is the best because it is quick, easy, and filling!”
Image source: Fit Foodie Finds
Related: Creating a Balanced Workout Routine for Sprinters
7. Mac & Cheese
Mac & Cheese is such a nostalgic meal. There is nothing better than a good old plate of Mac & Cheese.
Image source: Love Bakes Good Cakes
8. PB&J
Peanut Butter and Jelly is arguably one of the best sandwiches you could make! It is a timeless meal that will make you feel energized and replenished.
9. Sandwich
This is a classic meal before any big game. It's quick and easy so you can be on the field ready to win!
Image source: Bread Booze Bacon
Related: Why Athletes Need Protein: Muscle Repair and Growth
10. Ground Turkey
If you're trying to be healthy, eating ground turkey and rice is always a yummy dish. You can even top it off with some fish and soy sauce! Sounds bland, but it is so good!
Image source: Key to My Lime
11. Spaghetti
Spaghetti is a cheap and simple way for you to eat a yummy meal before a big game!
Image source: Rachel Cooks
Have an idea for a story or have a question you need answered? Email us at [email protected]
* Originally published on March 23, 2022, by Matthew Reichen
