Volleyball

Pre-game fuel is vital especially in the form of carbohydrates as players muscle glycogen stores should be fully stocked to give the energy to last throughout the match.

Fluid hydration is vital too, especially for beach volleyball or games played in hot or humid conditions. Replacing electrolytes lost through sweating prevents impaired performance and can even reduce symptoms such as dizziness and nausea.

Energy and Endurance supplements such as Energy bars, gels and sports drinks can be used just prior to play, as well as intra workout. Meal replacements and Ready-to-drinks provide fast fuel for post-game and are easy to digest.

They also provide protein to help repair damaged muscle tissue and aid recovery. Taking additional amino acids can be helpful for their anti-catabolic effect and some, like branched chain amino acids, even provide a valuable energy source.

Volleyball uses both the aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. Explosive movements are used during serving as players have to toss and then hit the ball with a hand or arm. Attackers in particular use spikes which involve jumping, raising one arm above the head and hitting the ball and even offensive players use jumping and reaching movements.

Volleyball players must have the ability to do short sprints around the court and change direction quickly. Using Creatine supplements can enhance the anaerobic power used during short length bursts of energy and even increase lean muscle mass, making you a more powerful player.

A player may sometimes perform a dive by throwing their body in the air with a forward movement in an attempt to save the ball, and land on his or her chest or even drop his or her body quickly to the floor in order to save the ball. In this situation, the player makes use of a specific rolling technique to minimize the chances of injuries.

Protecting your joints with Joint supplements such as Glucosamine Sulphate can provide valuable protection against injury and repetitive strain.