Surveying the terrain of the supplement industry tailored for athletes

Designs for Sport is a line of NSF Certified for Sport products that are used in over 200 collegiate and pro sport locker rooms.

Bokser mentioned that athletes who have long, successful careers often take supplementation very seriously.

“Steph Curry, Tom Brady, and Sidney Crosby are really obsessed with it,” he said. “The athletes who prioritize supplements tend to have long and fruitful careers. So, as an athlete, it would be worth investing in upfront knowledge of nutrition and supplementation from a business perspective.

“When athletes are deciding on which supplements to take, they need the same education as everyone else. They need to understand the different forms of minerals and vitamins, the importance of absorption and dosage, and the significance of sourcing materials. Everyone needs to be diligent about what they’re taking. For athletes, gaining that extra 1% to 2% in performance could make a big difference in their careers and potential earnings.”

Bokser also highlighted the female athlete triad, a condition affecting as many as 78% of high school athletes, which involves menstrual dysfunction, low energy availability, and decreased bone mineral density.

“A great coach is one who recognizes that an athlete is not just an athlete but also a human being. The coach who understands and supports the holistic aspects of the athlete’s life tends to succeed in the long term. Athletes should seek support in all areas of their life without feeling guilty,” he explained.