Swimmer's Diet Plan

Competitive swimming varies in lengths, but it would still be seen as an endurance sport in respect of nutrition and training. However, unlike other endurance sports where power : weight ratio is of less importance, swimmers do desire a small amount of body fat surrounding the muscles to aid buoyancy; although a swimmer should be by no means 'fat', he/she may not have an exceptionally low bodyfat.

Typically, a keen swimmer would train four times per week in the pool with a varied training range of lengths from short speed distances to multiple lengths. Also, the swimmer may do some cardiovascular training and light weight training in the gym 2-3 times per week to further strength and endurance.

The diet should be based around low glycaemic carbohydrates for sustained energy, but with a reasonable amount of protein too, along with good amounts of essential fats, fibre, vitamins and minerals. Swimmers can be prone to muscle cramps, so, in addition to appropriate rest, ensure a good intake of electrolytes available from fruits.

Following a meal plan like the one below will be ideal for a typical swimmer to fuel training. If there's an event coming up then both pre- and post-event carbohydrate loading is recommended in order to maximise the muscle and liver carbohydrate stores.

The above plan provides sufficient levels of all nutrients, however do bear in mind that the plan is merely a general guide, you should adapt it to suit yourself; remember men will generally require larger portions than women. You must eat a variety of different meats/fish, complex carbohydrates, fruit and vegetables every day, and drink plenty of water. This plan is based around sustained slow released low glycaemic carbohydrates to help provide energy for exercise sessions. Oatcakes and granary bread will top up this slow released energy through the daytime. See our Glycaemic Index Tables for GI values of foods.