Legs threatening to cramp

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2008-09-16 9:14 AM

Member
279
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DC Metro
Subject: Legs threatening to cramp

I drink tons of fluid, mostly in the form of water.

 I've had leg cramps off and on throughout the years so it is quasi normal for me.  I eat potassium rich foods and a good multivitamin daily. 

I don't eat added salt. (should I start?!)

 I'm fairly new and just started biking and swimming in the last few weeks and started running this past weekend.  I've majorly bumped up my exercise in the last month overall.

 For at least week, my legs have been threatening to cramp.  I have the dull 'I want to cramp' feeling.  Not only am I getting it in my calf, but I'm getting it in my hamstring as well.  I've had my calf cramp a couple times but the hamstring cramp hasn't hit yet.

 Basically, what should I be doing?  Is it just a phase because I've increased my exercise and my body is adjusting?  

 

2008-09-16 11:11 AM
in reply to: #1676853

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Master
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Loughborough, England
Subject: RE: Legs threatening to cramp

Are you stretching properly?

Or, as you've already suggested it could be muscle fatigue due to training load, which rest should cure.

2008-09-16 12:14 PM
in reply to: #1676853

Champion
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South Jersey
Gold member
Subject: RE: Legs threatening to cramp
You're asking your muscles to work harder than they're prepared for. Just listen to your body and maybe cut back a little on intensity. Your body will catch up soon.
2008-09-16 12:46 PM
in reply to: #1676853

Member
279
100100252525
DC Metro
Subject: RE: Legs threatening to cramp

One of my new goals along with training is to stretch as it has been one of my weaknesses in the past and so I've been trying to make an effort to stretch.

 I figured I was stressing my muscles a bit and the other day I took a rest day just because I was wiped out and my legs said 'no more!' so I listened. 

 My mind says 'Go go go!' but my body says 'hey wait, i'm not exactly ready'.  So I guess I'll be kind to it.

2008-09-18 1:31 PM
in reply to: #1677561

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2008-09-20 6:56 PM
in reply to: #1676853

Alpharetta, GA
Subject: RE: Legs threatening to cramp
IMHO, I would do some experimenting with a buffered salt product like endurolytes or Lava Salts (I personally prefer and use Lava Salts). I have had cramping problems in the past and since I started taking salt tabs I have not had a cramp. Start off with just one and see if it helps. If not, then add 2 and see if it helps. If you go to more than 3 an hour and it doesn't help, it is probably not the salt. BTW not all brands have the same levels per tab, so plan accordingly based on the brand you try.

Best of Luck!

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