Earlier this month, Netball Northern Zone NetballSmart Development Officer, Katie Adamson, ran a SmartHealth workshop for the U14 & U16 rep teams at Netball North Harbour.
Designed to educate participants on the importance of their health as female athletes, Katie says SmartHealth is a great way to provide practical tips for players that will continue to support them throughout their lives.
Female health as a player
Teaching young women how to read and understand their own body is an important part of preventing injuries, Katie says.
“The aim is to teach them about the energy they expend, how they can fuel themselves to perform, and ways to recover.”
Katie explains it’s often being aware of the warning signs of LEA [low energy availability] that young people in this age group need to become aware of.
“At the session we talk about what LEA can look like and what to do to look after their bodies and their energy levels.”
Informative and interactive
Netball North Harbour Rep Coordinator Katrina Chatfield says the sessions were engaging, informative and interactive.
“The players were really engaged - Katie involved them really well as she covered the important topic of LEA and nutrition.”
About SmartHealth
Created by physiotherapist Kyle Cox, SmartHealth was launched in 2023 as is part of NetballSmart’s injury prevention programme. Its focus is on educating players, coaches and whānau on female player health and how to support mental and physical well-being.
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