Cramps During Exercise? Here's How to Avoid It!

Cramp or spasm is uncontrolled muscle contractions that tend to be painful. Spasm is common for many people, and it is usually caused by several factors, such as muscle fatigue, electrolyte and mineral imbalance (magnesium and potassium), or fluid loss (dehydration).

When you get cramps, there are several things that you can do to help ease the cramps. Here are some of them.

1. Slowly stretch the muscle until it relaxes.

2. Compress it with ice or cold water for a few minutes to help ease the spasm.

3. After your muscle relaxes, you can try to move your body part. If the spasm is in the calf area, you can try to slowly walk.

4. Relax your body by taking a hot shower.

5. Drink more water. Water that is packed with minerals is better. Avoid distilled water.

Since prevention is better than cure, here are some tips for you to prevent cramps or spasms.

1. Drink enough water before and after working out.

2. Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine.

3. Eat a balanced diet daily.

4. Get enough mineral supplies, especially potassium and magnesium.

5. Do enough warm-up and cool-down when exercising.

6. Make sure you stretch enough.

7. Avoid overtraining and get enough rest. Your body needs it.

8. Try not to exercise right after eating. Give it a break at least for 1-2 hours.