By the end of this course, you will (1) apply evidence-based nutrition principles to athletic training and (2) design tailored fueling strategies to enhance performance and recovery. Taught by Stephanie Hnatiuk, RD—Registered Dietitian and Performance Nutrition Expert—this course provides a practical foundation in macronutrients, hydration, supplementation, and meal timing.

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Sports Nutrition Principles for Performance and Recovery
This course is part of Niel Asher Education Advanced Personal Trainer Specialization

Instructor: Niel Asher Education
Included with
Recommended experience
What you'll learn
How to tailor nutrition, hydration, and fueling strategies for performance goals
How to integrate evidence-based nutrition into training and rehabilitation plans
Skills you'll gain
Details to know

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December 2025
5 assignments
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There are 5 modules in this course
Every athlete wants to train harder, recover faster, and perform at their best—but without proper nutrition, even the best training plan can fall short. In this essential course, Stephanie Hnatiuk, Registered Dietitian, Certified Personal Trainer, and Performance Nutrition Coach, shares her proven, evidence-based approach to fueling for performance and recovery. Designed for trainers, coaches, massage and athletic therapists, and healthcare professionals who work with active clients and athletes of all levels, this course introduces the Performance Nutrition Hierarchy—a clear, practical model for building a complete and sustainable nutrition plan. Through clear explanations and real-world examples, Stephanie breaks down how to assess and meet energy needs, balance macronutrients, optimize micronutrient intake, and time meals for both performance and recovery. She also explores the role of supplements, hydration, and energy availability, and explains how chronic low energy intake can lead to Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S)—a major barrier to performance and health. Throughout the course, participants will learn to apply flexible, personalized nutrition strategies that fit real-life training environments—from recreational athletes to elite competitors. The course also examines current research on carbohydrates, protein timing, healthy fats, hydration, and alcohol, highlighting how each affects training outcomes and long-term athlete wellness. By the end of this course, you’ll have a complete framework for assessing and improving the nutrition of athletes and active clients, allowing you to better support their endurance, strength, and recovery goals through practical, science-driven strategies.
What's included
4 videos2 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt
This module breaks down the roles of macronutrients, micronutrients, and supplements in athletic performance, recovery, and long-term health. Learners will explore how fueling choices influence muscle adaptation, immune function, and injury risk. Practical guidance is provided on optimizing nutrient timing, identifying critical deficiencies, and determining when evidence-based supplements may be beneficial.
What's included
4 videos1 assignment
This module focuses on applying performance nutrition principles into practical, individualized plans. Students will learn how to structure daily fueling strategies, balance training demands with recovery needs, and adjust intake to support changes in intensity, volume, and athletic goals.
What's included
2 videos1 reading1 assignment1 discussion prompt
This module gives learners the opportunity to apply course concepts through brief, scenario-based tasks. These activities reinforce real-world decision making, communication skills, and professional confidence when working with clients.
What's included
1 assignment
This final exam is designed to assess your understanding of the key concepts presented throughout the course. Please review all video lessons and written materials before beginning. A passing score of 70% or higher is required to successfully complete the course and earn your CE certificate. You may reference your notes during the exam. Once you pass, your certificate will be available for immediate download.
What's included
1 assignment
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Frequently asked questions
To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.
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