As Ramadan begins, many Muslim footballers around the world will be fasting while competing in their respective leagues. This period brings unique challenges, as players adjust their nutrition, hydration, and recovery routines. The question arises: How can the football industry better support Muslim players during this important religious month?
In countries where Muslims are a minority, player unions like England’s Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) have taken steps to raise awareness. Clubs have been provided with workshops to educate coaches and staff on the impact of fasting and how to best assist players observing Ramadan.
Medical Insights on Ramadan and Football
FIFPRO Chief Medical Officer Prof. Dr. Vincent Gouttebarge, a former professional footballer with 14 seasons in France and the Netherlands, highlights three key elements that affect a fasting player’s performance and recovery.
1. Nutrition
“Athletes typically need three balanced meals a day to sustain high performance. During Ramadan, this shifts to two main meals—one before sunrise and another after sunset,” Gouttebarge explains. “The pre-dawn meal should include high-glycaemic foods like potatoes and rice for sustained energy, while the evening meal should focus on low-glycaemic options. Clubs should also consider appropriate supplementation, under the guidance of a team physician.”
2. Hydration
“Staying hydrated is a challenge during fasting hours. Players should maximize fluid intake at night while balancing this with quality sleep,” says Gouttebarge. Cooling techniques, such as cold towels, mouth rinsing, and post-training cold showers, can help reduce fluid loss. He also advises against coffee and tea and suggests sodium supplements to maintain electrolyte balance.
3. Sleep
“Ramadan alters the body’s natural sleep cycle, which can significantly impact a player’s performance,” Gouttebarge notes. “Combined with changes in nutrition and hydration, adjusting to a different biological rhythm can be difficult.”
Ramadan and Performance: Risks and Benefits
While fasting is not physiologically ideal for peak performance, some players find that the spiritual significance of Ramadan provides extra motivation. “Mentally, it can serve as an inspiration to push through challenges,” says Gouttebarge.
Research on fasting and injury risk remains inconclusive. Studies conducted in Qatar and Tunisia produced conflicting results on whether Ramadan increases the likelihood of injuries. However, coaches and medical staff should remain cautious and make necessary adjustments.
How Clubs Can Support Players
To help players balance fasting with performance, clubs must adapt training schedules. Gouttebarge suggests two options:
- Scheduling training about three hours after the pre-dawn meal to allow for proper digestion.
- Moving intense training sessions to the evening, after players have broken their fast.
“If a player trains in the afternoon after fasting all day, their performance and health can suffer,” he warns. “Open communication between players and coaching staff is essential for developing a tailored approach that ensures player well-being and optimal performance.”
By implementing these strategies, football clubs can create a more supportive environment for Muslim players during Ramadan.
Related topics:
