Severe cramps after cycling?

[Pupp]

Anyone else wake upwith horrendous cramp after a good ride? Did last night, with a calf absolutely locked solid and think I have actually torn muscle as a consequence as the bugger is so sore today

[BerksJack]

Could be a Lack of salt?

Are you drinking enough and replacing lost fluids and minerals to recover afterwards

[Roman]

Take extra vitimin D (Holland & Barratt 'super one timed release multi vitamins) & Quinine (tonic water). I'm guessing you already stretch & warm down after a ride.

[MadDad]

This warrants a much longer answer but there are several factors you need to consider, this works for me (but might not for you);

> if I am riding I usually drink a few litres of water throughout the day before riding to make sure I am hydrated
> 5 mins of stretching before I set off (google for cycle stretches - lots of routines on the web)
> ensure you take on an adequate volume of liquid and carbs while riding, on a 30 - 50 mile ride I will use 750 mls of SIS PSP22 and 750 mls of high5 hydration mix - you will not believe the difference this makes over water or juice
> try to keep your cadence at a constant, aim for 80-100 and don't try 'powering' up hills, much better to find a gear you can climb comfortably in than fight with your bike
> 5 mins session of stretches when you have finished
> pint of choccy milkshake when you have finished, as good (if not better) than most recovery drinks

I am sure that someone will be along with a more scientific answer but the above works for me. Key to combating cramp is hydration and stretching. ;-)

HTH