THE IMPACT OF NUTRITION ON MUSCLE RECOVERY AND GROWTH IN ATHLETES IN THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN

ABSTRACT

This study examined the the impact of nutrition on muscle recovery and growth in athletes in the University of Benin. Three research questions were raised and answered to guide the study.

The study made use of descriptive survey research design which involves collecting information from a target population. The population of the study consisted of the 250 registered students athletes in the University of Benin,  Edo State. A sample of 100 students athletes were used for the study with the purposive sampling technique employed in selecting the respondents for the study. A research instrument was validated by the researcher’s supervisor and two other experts in the Department of Human Kinetics and Sports Science. The test-retest method of reliability was used and a coefficient of 0.822 was obtained which is good. Based on the results obtained from the study it was revealed that nutrition has an impact on the muscle recovery of athletes which also influences their normal body growth and the ability of their muscles to recover after every exercise as well as well as replacing essential elements in their body system such as body fluids.

As a result of the findings of the study, the following recommendations were made; student athletes should adopt essential nutritional plans recommended for them, student athletes should ensure that they consume adequate proteins in their diet in order to help rebuild and repair their muscles, the student athletes should be conscious about their hydration status and should endeavour to stay hydrated regularly, although challenging and difficult at times, student athletes should endeavour to have their breakfast which helps in maintaining body mass and keeping them fit and that the student athletes should consume fruits and vegetables in their diets which is essential in rebuilding and repairing muscles.