🏊‍♀️ Masters Meet Ready – Where to Eat at London Aquatics Centre (And How to Fuel for Performance)

Masters Meet Nutrition Guide – London Aquatics Centre Edition

If you're preparing to compete at the London Aquatics Centre this June, don't overlook the role nutrition plays in your performance. As a Masters swimmer, proper fueling can make the difference between feeling strong throughout the meet or fading by the finals.

In this post — the first in our new "Poolside Fuel" series — we're giving you a practical guide to food options at the venue, local restaurants, and how to fuel like a pro swimmer.

Why Nutrition Is Critical for Masters Swimmers

Swimming demands a lot, especially when you're juggling training, recovery, and everyday life. Whether you're sprinting a 50 Free or grinding through a 400 IM, your body needs:

  • Consistent energy from complex carbs

  • Lean protein for muscle recovery

  • Hydration support (especially if racing multiple times)

Master your meet-day nutrition, and you’ll perform better, recover faster, and feel more focused.

On-Site Fueling: What’s Available at London Aquatics Centre

Located within the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, the London Aquatics Centre includes a convenient café: Street & Co Café.

Typical Offerings:

  • Fresh sandwiches (including vegetarian options)

  • Pasta pots and healthy salads

  • Smoothies, juices, and protein drinks

  • Coffee and hydration drinks

Race-Day Tip: Eat a carb + protein-rich meal 1–2 hours before your event (e.g., chicken wrap + banana), and refuel between races with small snacks like fruit, energy bars, or yoghurt.

Post-Race Refuel: Local Eats Nearby

Just steps away from the pool, Stratford offers some great options for full meals:

Kitchen E20

  • Healthy seasonal dishes, great for lean proteins and veggies

Pizza East – Stratford

  • Wood-fired pizzas and hearty options, perfect for a carb load

Barge East

  • Unique floating venue with locally-sourced food, ideal for a celebratory meal

Hackney Bridge

  • Multiple food vendors with international options (vegan and gluten-free available)

Want a Personalised Race-Day Nutrition Plan?

We get it — nutrition is personal. That’s why we offer 1:1 consultations to build a macro plan tailored to your swim goals:

  • Maximise energy across events

  • Reduce race-day fatigue

  • Fine-tune your daily intake based on training volume

🗓️ Book a consultation today: oxolt.com/masters-swimming-nutrition

What’s Next in the Series?

Stay tuned as we explore more Masters meet venues and how to fuel for each:

  • Ponds Forge, Sheffield

  • Mountbatten Centre, Portsmouth

  • London Fields Lido

Have a pool you want featured? Let us know — we’re here to support your swim journey.

Previous
Previous

🏊‍♀️ The Ultimate Recovery Guide for Masters Swimmers: Train Smarter, Swim Faster

Next
Next

5 Reasons Your Land Training Sessions Aren’t Helping Your Swimming Performance