The importance of balance in Nutrition

By: Psychologist Diana Sosa, member of the World Boxing Council Medical Committee

Many people ask if the boxer`s diet must be extremely strict at all times, in order to be at weight or inside the category limit, which corresponds to them?

The answer is no. Although, a diet plan should be carried out, guided and monitored by a Sports Nutrition professional. These plans are no longer restrictive, rather encompassing and thus providing the necessary strength plus energy that a boxer who is going to fight requires.

However, what happens in the periods of inactivity of the fighter? This is where the real weight management in boxing begins, since when at rest or without a fight on the horizon, sometimes excesses in food or drinks (alcohol) lead the boxer to gain a considerable amount of weight, which on return to the gym, is a hampering factor in sports performance.

The active boxer must always keep in mind, that while at rest he may have easier access to high-calorie foods, he must be constantly on the move (ie, running regularly, training or going to the gym on a regular basis) to maintain a proper balance between caloric intake and physical activity. Otherwise, weight gain will occur.

It is important for the fighter’s work team to collectively raise awareness that taking care of themselves with regard to food, is part of the obligations as an athlete. However, they can also enjoy their breaks without falling into excesses, so they should always keep in mind that balance will be a fundamental attitude, to be able to carry and handle adequate weight management.