Episode 167: Why Eating Healthy Isn’t Enough for Gymnast Success (and What to Do Instead)

When it comes to gymnast nutrition, “healthy” and “adequate” are not the same thing. And confusing the two can keep your gymnast stuck in frustration, struggling with performance, and at higher risk of injury.

So many parents tell me, “But Christina, my gymnast eats so healthy!” And while that’s absolutely important, the real question is—is she eating enough?

Here’s the truth. A gymnast can eat the cleanest, most nutrient-dense diet in the world, but if it’s not adequate—meaning enough total energy, protein, carbs, and fats—her body is still underfueled.

And that underfueling leads to stalled progress, poor recovery, and increased injury risk (even when everything looks “healthy” on the plate).

Gymnasts need adequacy to meet the high demands of training and competition so “healthy nutrition” doesn’t automatically equal “performance nutrition.” If your gymnast is serious about her goals, nutrition has to go beyond “healthy.” Adequate fueling is the foundation for strength, energy, growth, and keeping her body safe from overuse injuries.

 ✨ This episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever wondered why your gymnast is doing all the right things with her food but still seems tired, stuck, or sidelined by nagging injuries. You might have that “ah-ha” moment…

In this episode you’ll learn: 

• The key differences between “healthy” and “adequate” fueling for gymnasts
•  Why just focusing on clean eating can actually backfire for gymnasts 
•  Meeting energy needs is non-negotiable if your gymnast wants to stay strong, healthy, and progressing in the sport. 

Links & Resources 

• Episode 64: Is your gymnast overtrained or underfueled?
• Episode 04: Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport and Gymnastics
• The Balanced Gymnast® Program for level 5-10 female gymnasts 
• Connect with Christina on Instagram @the.gymnast.nutritionist or christinaandersonrdn.com