Vitamins enhance athletic performance by supporting energy metabolism, maintaining muscle function, and boosting immune health. For instance, B vitamins are crucial for converting food into energy, while vitamin D supports bone health and muscle function. Antioxidant vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin E help reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress. Proper vitamin intake can lead to improved overall performance, faster recovery, and reduced injury risk. However, athletes should strive for a balanced diet to meet their vitamin needs naturally.