DISQUS

Arcaner · 3 years ago

I;m not a pro by any means, but proper stretching during training can go a long way to preventing cramps at least in my experience.

Annette · 3 years ago

I haven't had to deal with leg cramps like that - during a race, but I've found that a good sports massage (not too close to race day) really loosens those muscles up.

Lora · 3 years ago

How is your potassium/sodium intake? Are you taking in enough Gatorade or the like? Also, consider a Magnesium pill. Just some thoughts.

Anonymous · 3 years ago

I have the same problems sometimes during my own marathon runs. Lora is correct, it is most likely an electrolyte imbalance. Look into Succeed caps (salt and potassium), they work great. They sell them at a reasonable price at zombierunner.com

Steve · 3 years ago

Thanks Anonymous! I'll check out that product.

Anita · 3 years ago

Steve,
I know you've already thought of this but since muscle cramps during physical exercise are often an indication of inadequate blood flow which in the chain of things is caused by lack of oxygen, isn't this related more to your asthma than to inadequate electrolytes or stretching? I'm wondering if there's ever been a correlation for you in a race as to how your breathing is at the point the muscle cramps kick in....

Reen · 3 years ago

I agree you probably need more potassium. I buy potassium gluconate at Costco and take one everyday. I used to get horrible night cramps but once I started taking the potassium they have stopped completely. If I miss a couple of days they come back!


Keep up the good work - you're an inspiration!

Scooter · 3 years ago

I'm late with this, but bananas are considered by many to be the standard food based potassium (K)supplement. Many fruits and veggies are high in K. My experience has been that if you take potassium as you get twitchy, it's later than ideal, but you can usually avoid full-blown cramps. Pay attention to upping your fruit and veggie intake before the race.