This course introduces the scientific foundations of nutrition and training that power elite football performance. Through evidence-based insights from Real Madrid’s innovation and performance teams, learners will explore how nutrients, energy systems, and physiological processes interact to fuel the modern game. From understanding macronutrients and hydration to mastering metabolism and energy balance, the course connects biological mechanisms to real-world performance on the pitch.
Power & Performance: Foundations of Nutrition and Training
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Power & Performance: Foundations of Nutrition and Training
This course is part of Sports Nutrition and Training: Innovation Assets Specialization
Instructor: Marisa Sáenz
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
Recommended experience
2 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Understand how nutrients, energy systems, and training shape elite football performance.
Learn to apply evidence-based nutrition and hydration strategies to optimize recovery.
Explore how metabolism, energy balance, and strength training build lasting performance.
Skills you'll gain
- Performance Analysis
- Hydrology
- Coordination
- Clinical Nutrition
- Planning
- Nutritional Assessment
- Exercise Science
- Nutrition Education
- Performance Reporting
- Kinesiology
- Athletic Training
- Meal Planning And Preparation
- Stress Management
- Physical Stamina
- Sports Medicine
- Load Balancing
- Health Technology
- Physiology
- Leadership
- Nutrition and Diet
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Recently updated!
November 2025
Assessments
8 assignments
Taught in English
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This course is part of the Sports Nutrition and Training: Innovation Assets Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
- Learn new concepts from industry experts
- Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
- Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
- Earn a shareable career certificate
There are 4 modules in this course
Delve into the nutritional essentials that drive elite performance on the field. This module covers the roles of macronutrients, vitamins, minerals, and hydration, offering practical guidance to optimize players’ diets and ensure they’re always game ready.
What's included
6 videos4 readings2 assignments
Explore the journey of food from plate to pitch, and discover how the body converts nutrients into powerful movement. Learn about digestion, muscle energy systems, and how to balance energy intake and expenditure for sustained athletic output.
What's included
6 videos3 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt
Gain a deeper understanding of the physical and metabolic demands faced by footballers during matches. This module breaks down match performance, energy systems, fatigue management, and the art of planning elite training for maximum impact.
What's included
6 videos3 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt
Build the foundation for football excellence with targeted aerobic, anaerobic, and strength training strategies. Discover advanced periodization models and the latest methods for developing the power, endurance, and resilience essential for top-level competition.
What's included
6 videos3 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt
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Instructor
Explore more from Nutrition
Real Madrid Graduate School Universidad Europea
Real Madrid Graduate School Universidad Europea
Real Madrid Graduate School Universidad Europea
Real Madrid Graduate School Universidad Europea
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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.
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