No Muslim wants to miss Ramadan, as it’s such an important month in the Islamic calendar. However, for me to be able to prepare for the championships, I required good nutrition and hydration to fuel training. As Ramadan prescribes that Muslims abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset, I would not have been able to fulfil this. I did however fast later in the year.Throughout the majority of my career though, electing to fast during Ramadan simply meant that I had to train after opening my fast, and eat foods that enabled me to retain muscle mass and provide me with the energy needed to train. It was also a good tool to use when I needed to lean out after a big hypertrophy programme.This year, many Muslim athletes will be doing something very similar. To them, I would say: ‘Be true to yourself.’ By doing so, you will be able to perform at the highest level but also reinforce your beliefs. I believe that elite athletes generally have good instincts, and will therefore make the right decision for themselves.In my experience, returning to full training after fasting was great. I was leaner, stronger and felt a great cognitive boost to my performance. Fasting also reduced inflammation and increased my recovery speed from tough sessions.With regards to sporting organisations, I think they could do more for athletes by providing educational materials on Ramadan and the positive effect that it can have on elite athletes. As part of NGBs’ duty of care and responsibility to help bring the best out of their athletes, they need to be both flexible and supportive during the month of Ramadan.Likewise athletes of other faiths. They can be supportive of their Muslim teammates by listening and being patient, as some Muslim athletes may fatigue quicker during the month. Also, other athletes shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions… or even try a fast themselves if they are up for it!Access our services |https://britisheliteathletes.org/athlete-support/|

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