Help...CRAMP!

[Redyoyo]

Last week during w4r2 I got cramp in my left calf. It was towards the end so, after a very brief stretch, I managed to continue. I had a dull pain for a few days but W4r3 went fine. Fast forward to W5r1 tonight and my calf went ping about a minute into the 2nd run. I had to stop and walk (hobble). I did manage to do the final 5 minute run, of a fashion, but I'm so disappointed. Nobody, least of all me, thought I would get this far so I can't let this get me down. Any advice on how to stop these cramps please?

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate]

I may be wrong but I thought a major cause of cramp is dehydration. Are you drinking enough during your day before your runs?

I used to suffer middle of the night calf cramp but once I increased my hydration (by a lot) they stopped.

Hope you find an answer...

[Redyoyo in reply to GoGo_JoJo]

Thanks JoJo. I always take water with me (it's a bit like a comfort blanket) but perhaps I should have a large drink before I set off. Thanks, I'll try that.

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate in reply to Redyoyo]

I have stopped carrying water as I read here from a senior member that it really shouldn't be necessary for a half hour outing.

My partner also pointed out I was carrying it in one hand and it was bound to throw my body slightly out of alignment.

So taking both comments on board I ditched the bottle (it is a comfort thing) and I think I'm feeling a benefit.

I always have a decent drink before I go and usually put away 2l a day rising to 4 or more/day in hot weather. My job is physical though.

[Redyoyo in reply to GoGo_JoJo]

I must admit that I'm pretty rubbish at drinking. I've not long started a new job (sitting down all day) where tea rounds are made frequently. I've swapped tea for hot water and lemon though so, although it all counts, I should probably skip a few rounds and replace with plain water instead. Thanks for all your advice x

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate]

Oh and potassium. Eat more bananas or avocados!

[Redyoyo]

I've had 2 bananas today including one shortly before the run! Avocados it is then

[Anthie Graduate]

If you've read Iannoda Truffe's posts, you should know that you need to make sure you drink a lot THE DAY BEFORE you run. If your cramps are due to dehydration, you'll have to make sure you get 2 litres/4 pints of water at least and as already suggested magnesium and potassium can help.

Do you stretch (dynamic stretching) before your runs? It may help as well. Good luck and hope you'll be able to run (slowly but safely) to finish your week 5. Don't forget static stretching on the days you don't run: you'll find a lot of suggestions in the FAQs posts or on YouTube to stretch your calves.

[Redyoyo in reply to Anthie]

Thank you Anthie, l'll check that out.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to Redyoyo]

The guide to the plan gives advice on hydration, which can be linked to cramps on occasions. healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Hydrate every day...not just run days.... warm up well, stretch after every run... and if something went ping...please get it checked out!