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I feel little sheepish posting a thread here but maybe that's good.
After I going running my calves cramp pretty bad. I stretch before and after, however if I walk I don't notice it as much. Any thoughts on how to fix this problem? Thanks
Foam rolling/myofascial release with the stick like lucky said, a foam roller or even just a tennis ball. You probably have tight calves and foam rolling will help the muscles relax so they stop cramping. Be sure to roll out the bottoms of your feet as well.
Watch your electrolytes. Bananas are often suggested as source of potassium but there are better sources. Avocados, for example. Top 10 Foods Highest in Potassium
Breadfruit appears to be the champ of potassium, if you can find it.
Also, when you feel an impending cramp, take deep breaths, because oxygen is a factor too. Avoid alcohol.
I can definitely be an electrolyte imbalance. Make sure you're getting adequate sodium, magnesium and potassium. I like SmartWater during (and if cramping a lot sometimes add coconut water after) training, especially in hotter weather when you're apt to sweat more.
SInce you are sheepish I will not make fun of your weak little calves (joking).
Unfortunately nobody will be able to pinpoint why you are cramping because as hawaiiancoconut (geez bro, get a shorter and easier to spell screen name) said, it can be any number of reasons - and he mentioned some common ones but take ntoe that he also said there are others.
Anywhoo, is this a new thing? Have they not cramped before? Are you new to this running thing? Or perhaps have increased length or intensity?
If you are not new and haven't increased length or intensity and this just started it's more likely a diet, hydration, weather thing.
If you are new it is more likely that your body is acclimating but can also be diet, hydration, etc. or can be a mix.
Make sure you are always hydrated and start out fully hydrated. My guess however is that it's your body acclimating. People ususally don't push to the level that requires extra nutrition so if they are hydrated and eat a balanced diet it's typically a case of acclimation to a new activity, the increase in an activity, or letting your body get used to a change in weather.
Bananas and snickers bars (or peanuts) with water before your run. Problem = solved
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