Cramp

[McFsC]

I never normally suffer cramp. In fact it must have been about a year ago when I got it for the first time and found out what it was.

It was back tonight, nothing harsh but I felt it again for breif periods towards the end of the ride.

What is it exactly and how can I garuntee ( 99% be sure ) I won't get it again.

Cheers.

[MocMocaMoc]

I'd get it after a weekend.

I (used to, anyway) drink LOADS of booze over a weekend.

Less drink - less cramp.

[McFsC]

I'm alcohol free...

[Teebs]

SIS hydration tablets or High5 tablets. Works for me

[Rolls]

^^^^ what he said!

[McFsC]

So what is it? Just a lack of fuel, if so, quite pleased that this is the first time in over a year I've had it.

[Matt_N]

Normally due to a lack of hydration and or not warming up properly.

I sometimes get cramp in my calves if I forget to give them a gentle stretch out before I start riding.

Worth noting that loads of stretching before a ride is generally not recommended, better to do a gentle warm up on the bike for 5-10 mins before increasing your pace and then a warm down at the end.

Stretching after a ride is good though.

[ewenm]

McFsC said:

So what is it? Just a lack of fuel, if so, quite pleased that this is the first time in over a year I've had it.

Dehydration. I get it occasionally on my triple days (cycle to work, run at lunchtime, cycle home) on the cycle home if I don't rehydrate properly during the day. Rehydration isn't just water, but also replacing the salts you've lost.

[crisisjez]

Cook with/eat more salt.

[rolando]

Take dihydrogen monoxide. Liquid form is best. Available at all good chemists.

[Rocksteadyeddie]

I find more salt is the answer. I add 1/4 teaspoon to my bottles - which are usually full of HIgh5 electrolyte or equivalent. The amount of sodium in most of the electolyte tabs is actually quite small.

[zebedee]

Working the muscles harder and longer than normal builds up lactic acid, if it wasn't that then most likely dehydration but the salt is more important than the liquid, so try using an electrolyte drink additive(rather than a carbs based one).

I haven't had cramp for years but went out and did some high intensity time-trialling type activity and after 45 mins it started creeping into my right calf. I figured as it was only just starting as I completed my ride, I probably judged my effort well. I didn't bother with electrolytes as I was only out 45 mins.

[McFsC]

Exactly the same situation as above ^. Cheers for the replies, quite glad I don't suffer with it normally and only a few small changes should keep it that way!