Can cycling cause leg cramps?

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Always bear in mind that cycling is a low-impact sport that is gentle on the knee joints. Just remember though that it is still possible to end up injured or experience pain while cycling. Variety of injuries can occur due to overuse or working strenuously. The usual complaint among cyclists is leg cramps. Even though there is no sure treatment for leg cramps, there are a number of preventive measures that aims to reduce the risk for developing the cramps.

Close look on leg cramps

Leg cramps typically manifests abruptly while cycling. The individual will feel a dull pain or it can be intensely piercing, which forces him/her to stop pedaling. Take note that the muscle, usually in the foot or calf starts to spasms uncontrollably and can feel as if there is an electrical shock or charley horse. Even though the exact cause of the leg cramps is not known, it is believed by doctors that once the body is fatigued due to exertion, a reflex stimulates the muscles.

What are the causes?

Leg cramps
Leg cramps typically manifests abruptly while cycling.

The leg cramps can manifest once the body is pushed to its limits. Long distance cycling can put an individual at higher risk for cramping since they are working out at a hard intensity. In some cases, sprinting can also trigger cramping.

Muscle fatigue along with intense heat can bring on leg cramps. Take note that the body should also maintain its electrolyte balance during activity. While sweating, the body loses minerals such as magnesium, calcium, sodium and potassium. Understandably, this leads to imbalance since these minerals control the muscle contractions as well as the chemical energy of the cells.

Preventive measures

The best way to prevent leg cramps is to keep the body properly hydrated as well as maintaining proper nutrition during a ride to help delay the start of the cramps. It is vital to focus on electrolyte replacement by adding salt or electrolyte supplement to the water.

Carbohydrates should be eaten during a ride since they can provide the required fuel for the muscles as well as prevent them from becoming fatigued. Once the muscles are tired, they contract easily and susceptible to cramping. The individual should not strain too much before he/she is properly trained. The mileage should be steadily increased in order to avoid overexertion or taxing on the muscles excessively.

Treatment

When an individual is suffering from leg cramps, he/she must stop cycling and try to stretch out and massage the massage as soon as possible. It is recommended to reduce the intensity of the ride and perform regular stretching as part of the cycling routine to keep the muscles slack and flexible. As for the diet, it is best to stick with a healthy one to naturally fuel up on electrolytes and carbohydrates.

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