Causes for side cramps/stitches?

Frappuzzino

I've been doing a 20 minute Zumba work out every day for the past week (used to be 3x a week only). Since I've been doing it every day, I've been getting a cramp in my right side every session. I usually just work through it, but today I had a cramp on my left side instead of my right and had to stop. What is the cause of cramps/stitches when working out intensely?

yankeedownsouth

I sometimes get them when I'm running if my breathing is a bit out of control. So maybe not enough oxygen?

Di3012

I've been doing a 20 minute Zumba work out every day for the past week (used to be 3x a week only). Since I've been doing it every day, I've been getting a cramp in my right side every session. I usually just work through it, but today I had a cramp on my left side instead of my right and had to stop. What is the cause of cramps/stitches when working out intensely?

It's often to do with not warming up properly for for long enough. A reduction in blood supply to that area causes it to cramp.

You can put pressure on the area with your fingers and squeeze or push the offending part, that can end up relieving the pain, or stop, bend over and touch your toes. For some reason that will work too.

Stitches will not kill you though and in running for instance, it is fine to run through it if you are able to do so, it won't damage you.