Nutrition & Fueling
Fueling the whole athlete — practical nutrition resources for coaches, parents, and athletes to build strong habits and a healthy relationship with food.
— YOUTH RESOURCES —
The USATF Foundation has compiled the best tools, platforms, and resources to help youth track & field clubs run smoothly, grow their programs, and support their athletes.
— START HERE —
Coach Guides
Foundational guides written for coaches — covering macros, hydration, meal timing, and practical strategies you can bring to your team.
A Coach’s Guide to Nutrition
In-depth breakdown of macronutrients, hydration, and fueling strategy. United Dairy Industry of Michigan.
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A Coach’s Guide to Sports Nutrition
Simpler, more visual introduction to the same core concepts. Special Olympics.
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The Coach’s Nutrition Playbook
Practical meal and snack ideas, including budget-friendly options. Free course — email signup required.
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— PRACTICAL TOOLS —
Fueling & Recovery
Downloadable templates, fact sheets, and guides for everyday training, travel, and race day.
Eat For Endurance
Travel snack checklists, pre-exercise fueling guides, race day templates, and tips for young athletes.
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Sports & Performance Dietitians
Fueling, hydration, macronutrients, and sport-specific guidance. Available in Spanish.
US Olympic & Paralympic Committee
Fact sheets spanning a wide range of topics, from vegetarian diets to altitude considerations.
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Runner’s Guide to Optimal Nutrition
Running-specific fueling overview written for athletes. McMillan Running.
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— ENERGY AVAILABILITY —
Understanding RED-S
Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport happens when an athlete isn’t taking in enough energy to support both training and normal body function. It affects athletes of every gender and can impact bone health, hormones, recovery, and long-term performance — often without obvious warning signs.
RED-S in Sport
What RED-S is, how low energy availability develops, and what coaches should be aware of.
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Sports Nutrition & Hydration for Female Athletes
Available as a PDF or interactive version. Gatorade Performance Partner.
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— RESEARCH —
Practical Guidelines for Coaches
Research-backed guidelines for coaches and support staff to initiate conversations about RED-S with athletes — covering relationship building, education, communication, and addressing barriers to disclosure.
Teschuk, E., & Erickson, K. (2026). International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching.
— ATHLETE WELLBEING —
Eating Disorders & Body Image
Coaches are often the first to notice when something changes with an athlete — but they aren’t expected to diagnose or treat. These resources focus on what to watch for, how to talk about food and bodies in a way that builds trust, and when to bring in a qualified professional.
Coach & Athletic Trainer Toolkit
Warning signs, how to approach a conversation, and building a team culture that supports healthy relationships with food. National Eating Disorders Association.
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Project REDS Toolkit
Educational materials connecting energy deficiency, disordered eating, and long-term athlete health.
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Need Support Now?
If you’re concerned about an athlete or about yourself, the National Alliance for Eating Disorders operates a free helpline staffed by licensed clinicians who can help you find treatment and next steps.
— TAKE ACTION —
APPLY FOR THE YOUTH CLUB GRANT
Ready to take your club to the next level? Apply for a USATF Foundation Youth Club Grant today.