Description: Athletic Trainers are frequently the first sports medicine professionals athletes consult regarding daily energy, hydration, and nutritional strategies. This comprehensive course equips ATs with foundational, evidence-based sports nutrition principles necessary to guide athletic performance, body composition goals, and injury recovery. Clinicians will examine macronutrient timing, energy availability concepts, micronutrient optimization, and fluid replacement guidelines tailored to varying training loads and athletic environments. The curriculum details the physiological role of nutrition in muscle protein synthesis, glycogen replenishment, and systemic inflammation reduction during acute and chronic injury rehabilitation. Additionally, the course provides practical guidance on evaluating dietary supplements, recognizing red flags for relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs), and practicing within the ATC scope of practice while effectively collaborating with registered dietitians. Athletic Trainers will complete this course ready to deliver sound, practical nutritional advice that enhances athletic resilience and fueling strategy.

Objectives: Analyze macronutrient requirements and optimal fueling timing strategies relative to athletic training volumes and intensity. Calculate fluid and electrolyte replacement needs to prevent dehydration and heat-related illness during athletic competition. Evaluate the physiological consequences of Low Energy Availability (LEA) and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) in male and female athletes. Apply evidence-informed dietary strategies to support soft-tissue repair, bone healing, and inflammatory control during injury recovery. Critique third-party testing and safety profiles of common dietary and ergogenic supplements to protect athlete health and eligibility. Establish appropriate referral criteria and clinical boundaries for athletic trainers working alongside board-certified sports dietitians.

Presenter(s): Stephanie Hnatiuk, RD

Status: Active

Activity Difficulty Level: Essential

Domains:

• Risk Reduction
• Wellness and Health Literacy

Format: Virtual Asynchronous - On Demand

Dual Credentials and JA: Athletic Trainers Only

Start Date & Time: 09/14/2026 12:00 AM CDT

End Date & Time: 01/31/2032 11:59 PM CST

Cost: $59.95

Capacity: 99999

CEUs: 6