Cramps in thighs when running

Options
AsthmaticHippo
AsthmaticHippo Posts: 62 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I normally cycle but when travelling that's not practical so I like to run. However I often seem to get cramps in my thighs. It seems to be especially bad when going down hill and normally does not kick in until the 2nd or 3rd km so I'm guessing the impact might be something to do with it.

Any ideas or advice would be appreciated as it's really annoying

Replies

  • Djproulx
    Djproulx Posts: 3,084 Member
    Options
    In warm weather, cramping can be a result of lack of fluids and electrolytes.
  • AsthmaticHippo
    AsthmaticHippo Posts: 62 Member
    Options
    I've done long endurance rides (300km) and am really careful about hydration as well as electrolytes. I can give you an example there is a steep 20% descent I go down. Try and run down and at the bottom my legs will cramp. Walk down, no cramp
  • Cherimoose
    Cherimoose Posts: 5,210 Member
    Options
    The quad muscles work harder downhill, so yours might be tight from all your cycling. Electrolytes have more trouble circulating in tight muscles. Try this quad stretch a few times a day for 30+ seconds. You should know if it's helping in a day or two. Post an update. :+1:
  • AnvilHead
    AnvilHead Posts: 18,344 Member
    Options
    AsthmaticHippo wrote: »
    I've done long endurance rides (300km) and am really careful about hydration as well as electrolytes. I can give you an example there is a steep 20% descent I go down. Try and run down and at the bottom my legs will cramp. Walk down, no cramp

    A 20% descent? The cramps most likely come from the intense eccentric contractions in your quads.
  • AsthmaticHippo
    AsthmaticHippo Posts: 62 Member
    Options
    Cherimoose wrote: »
    The quad muscles work harder downhill, so yours might be tight from all your cycling. Electrolytes have more trouble circulating in tight muscles. Try this quad stretch a few times a day for 30+ seconds. You should know if it's helping in a day or two. Post an update. :+1:

    Thanks will give it a go
  • Jthanmyfitnesspal
    Jthanmyfitnesspal Posts: 3,521 Member
    Options
    Yes, definitely do extended stretches. Dynamic stretches right before running also help. Basically, "kick your own butt" about 20 times or more per side before running. You can do it walking forward or holding on to something. (I actually do several dynamic stretches before running. Here's a good list (in fact, I see a bunch more I'd like to start doing):

    https://yurielkaim.com/dynamic-stretches-for-runners/

Categories