Sports nutritionist

Performance nutritionist, club nutritionist

Sports nutritionists advise players on what to eat and drink to perform, recover and stay healthy.

Average salary (a year)

£26,000£50,000

StarterExperienced

Starter £26,000 to experienced £50,000

Typical hours (a week)

30 to 40often part time

You could work

evenings and weekendsoccasionally

How to become a sports nutritionist

You can get into this job through:

University

You can do a degree in a relevant subject.

You’ll need a degree in nutrition, sport and exercise nutrition or dietetics. A master’s in sport nutrition is common.

Courses, badges and licences

Football’s governing bodies run courses that are recognised across the game.

Registration with the Sport and Exercise Nutrition Register (SENr) is expected in professional football.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You’ll need:

  • knowledge of nutrition science
  • the ability to explain advice simply
  • planning and organisation skills
  • the ability to work with chefs and catering staff

Restrictions and requirements

You’ll usually need to:

  • be registered with the Sport and Exercise Nutrition Register (SENr) or as a dietitian with the HCPC

What you’ll do

Day-to-day tasks

In your day-to-day tasks you could:

  • assess players’ diets and body composition
  • plan menus with the club’s chefs
  • advise on match-day and travel nutrition
  • educate academy players and parents
  • manage supplement policies safely

Working environment

You’ll work at the training ground, in the canteen and gym, and sometimes travel with the team.

Career path and progression

You could become head of nutrition, or work across several clubs and sports.

Current opportunities

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Salaries and hours are typical figures for the UK and vary by club, league, location and experience. Last updated November 14, 2026.