Appropriate nutrition strategies to support and maximise physical potential

Sutherland, Fiona MSc (Nutrition & Diet), The Australian Ballet School, Melbourne, Australia 

Utilising appropriate nutrition education and intervention strategies are essential when supporting and actively promoting the achievement of physical potential in the dance sports. Specific nutrition strategies that are guided by the unique and individual needs of the dancer are at the very core of supporting any nutritional modifications that aim to promote physical change. Nutrition interventions are commonly used in the dance sports to modify body composition and shape, however the importance of utilising appropriate nutrition strategies to maximise growth potential in the young dancer is paramount in the promotion of peak levels of health, wellbeing and performance. In this session we will also discuss specific macro- and micro-nutrient requirements of the developing dancer and the practical ways to support an adequate nutritional intake.