Effect of smoking and alcohol consumption on sports performance

Smoking decreases lung capacity and function, causing shortness of breath and limiting athletic performance.
Nicotine in cigarettes constricts the blood vessels, affecting the flow of blood and oxygen to the muscles.
Reduced oxygen supply can hinder muscle development and repair, slowing down recovery times after exercise.
Smoking increases the heart rate at rest and during exercise, causing strain on the heart.
The carbon monoxide content reduces the blood’s capacity to transport oxygen, leading to fatigue and decreased performance.
The immune system is weakened by smoking, making the body more susceptible to illness and injury.

Alcohol can dehydrate your body, negatively impacting performance during a sports activity.
It affects the central nervous system, which can lead to decreased balance, accuracy, and response time.
Alcohol decreases steroid hormone production which is crucial in muscle growth and recovery.
It can reduce the body’s absorption of nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, necessary for maintaining energy levels and repairing muscle damage.
Alcohol can disrupt sleep patterns, which could make an athlete feel tired and impact physical and mental performance.
Consuming alcohol has a negative impact on decision-making and risk-assessment abilities, which are often crucial in competitive sports.