Foot cramps with cycling

SharonNehring
SharonNehring Posts: 535 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I've just started back exercising again by riding my recumbent stationary bike and I keep getting cramps in both my feet. (I've had this problem in the past as well.) I've tried various types of shoes and have found barefoot (socks) tends to do the best.

I'd like to start cycling outdoors again once the weather improves but need to figure out this cramping problem. It's one of the reasons I stopped cycling outdoors the last time I tried riding regularly. Any ideas or suggestions?

Thanks!
Sharon

Replies

  • Cherimoose
    Cherimoose Posts: 5,208 Member
    Try to walk around barefoot or in socks as much as possible. If you can't do that, stretch your foot arches frequently.. like every hour Here is how -
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEintoiiqSg
  • blanphere
    blanphere Posts: 82 Member
    Hi Sharon,

    I started spinning about 2 months ago to get me through the winter months. I'd taken classes before at my old gym, and LOVED it. Doing it on my own was a little scary, but I think I have the basics - not a pro by any means! I had the same numb feet thing on the spin bike, AND elliptical when I started. Still not sure with the elliptical, tried lots of different shoes, different resistance, speed, etc. But, on the bike, it was making sure the saddle was adjusted front / back correctly, as well as at the correct height. When I started, it was too far forward and too high. Not sure if that helps on a recumbent bike. I was really surprised how a 1/4 inch adjustment could really make a HUGE difference!

    Good luck!
  • sydneybeachgirl
    sydneybeachgirl Posts: 209
    it might not just be the shoes...
    many people are unaware the being deficient in magnesium and calcium can cause limb camps even without lifting a finger. Add on exercise and your already low magneium/calcium storage is eaten up pretty quickly.

    Best to check with a doc (do a bloodwork to check the levels) but if confirmed that you are on the lower side of MG and CAL content then a simple multivitamin tablet or Magnesium tablet will help at least on the days when you are working out.
  • blanphere
    blanphere Posts: 82 Member
    Great point! I have added electrolytes to my water throughout the day and it has significantly improved my muscle recovery / occasional cramping and spasms.
  • sydneybeachgirl
    sydneybeachgirl Posts: 209
    Great point! I have added electrolytes to my water throughout the day and it has significantly improved my muscle recovery / occasional cramping and spasms.

    electrolytes are a great thing! again - most people think they are for when one has stomach problems...well they are good whenever you feel tired, down, just out of energy...or just need that extra amount of vitamins, minerals (such as travelling)
  • SharonNehring
    SharonNehring Posts: 535 Member
    Thanks for the suggestions! I'm going to try adjusting the bike and doing the stretches to see if that helps. I have both calcium and magnesium tablets in my drug cabinet but haven't been taking them recently. Since I've changed my diet, it's very possible that's part of the problem, so I'll get back to taking them too. Thanks! :happy:

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