New research reveals two-thirds of amateur footballers are overhauling their diets, turning to performance-boosting foods instead of traditional post-match treats.A recent poll of 1,000 adult footballers found that a desire to perform at their best is driving a significant shift in amateur sports nutrition.
Almost two-thirds (67%) of players are actively seeking a competitive edge through diet, with 4 in 10 avoiding alcohol, 24% rarely eating burgers, and 23% steering clear of kebabs.
The study, which highlights a move away from the junk food they « could get away with » in their younger years, found 56% of Gen Z players now follow a diet designed to maintain energy levels during matches, taking inspiration from YouTube channels, health sites, and social media chefs.
Over a third (33%) hope to perform better for their team, and another third want to boost their stamina levels. And players believe a bad diet has a bigger impact on their team’s performance (22%) than bad communication (19%) or even their tactics (13%).
The findings come as Specsavers launched a campaign with former footballer and pundit Micah Richards and private chef Jonny Marsh to help turn around the fortunes of Brentwood-based side Warley FC. The team endured a challenging previous season, losing 18 of 20 games and conceding 81 goals.
Chef Marsh, who cooks for professional footballers, has worked with the squad to introduce a new diet—even giving the football-favourite chicken pie a ‘superfood upgrade’.
Luke Armstrong, Warley FC manager, confirmed the guidance is already paying dividends. « Last year, the team were partial to a regular kebab, we then went on to have a pretty rough season, » he said.
« A week after Jonny joined us, the team secured a confident 2-0 win… A clean sheet, a composed performance and a result that makes us excited to see how their progress develops. »
Marsh’s core message to the players is simple: “Fuel like you want to play. Small consistent changes like the right carbs to guarantee steady energy can transform how long you last on the pitch, how sharp you can feel in those final crucial minutes and importantly, how fast you recover.”
Kim Bull from Specsavers said: “With players aged from 18- to 42-years-old, the Warley team all prepare differently, especially when it comes to diet.
“With 10.30am Sunday kick-offs, getting the right fuel in is a real challenge, so Micah’s call to bring in Jonny should help them finish the Specsavers Best Worst Team season on a strong streak.”
Source link
