Cramps in my legs...?

ZannahDia
ZannahDia Posts: 65
edited September 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
So lots of times when I'm exercising I get these massive cramps in my leg, and have to stop what I'm doing until the pain goes away. It usually goes away relatively quick, but it's still very annoying. I never get any when I'm running or walking, or even when doing aerobics, its mostly when I'm doing stretches or yoga. So any advice on how I can keep them from happening? I've been drinking LOTS of water. Usually more then 8 cups a day... So yeah, any advice would be great.

Replies

  • rosec005
    rosec005 Posts: 67 Member
    Potassium is also supposedly related to muscle cramps. Maybe try eating more bananas?
  • JDMPWR
    JDMPWR Posts: 1,863 Member
    Potassium, Taurine, more water, less sodium.
  • cmiles23
    cmiles23 Posts: 234 Member
    POTASSIUM!!!!!!
  • kateminx
    kateminx Posts: 62 Member
    Hi! I suffer from really bad calf cramp and the only way I combat this is by increasing my salt intake - although I usually get it in the middle of the night - not so much when exercising. :)
  • jonikeffer
    jonikeffer Posts: 218 Member
    Potassium and iron deficiencies can cause these. I will get them in my feet when I curl them up/point my toes...it's like the muscle contracts and I just have to wait for it to release itself. Not sure why, but certain positions seem to trigger "charley horses" for me, and that sounds like what you're getting since it only happens when you're doing yoga or stretching.
  • bmiller211
    bmiller211 Posts: 222 Member
    some people swear by pickle juice...also if you want potassium cantaloupe is higher than bananas
  • MicheleStover
    MicheleStover Posts: 1
    Sweet potatos have more potasium than bananas and less calories; also add magnesium supplement along with Calcium.
  • irridia
    irridia Posts: 527 Member
    I have the same problem, but I eat a LOT of bananas and broccoli and drink lots of water happens to me mostly when I'm trying to sleep and often when I'm stretching... only one leg though.
  • rileamoyer
    rileamoyer Posts: 2,412 Member
    potassium and water (like everyone said). I usually find that if it happens while active it is the lack of water, if sleeping it is lack of potassium, but that is just me.
  • Angela4Health
    Angela4Health Posts: 1,319 Member
    potassium, magnesium!
  • Angela4Health
    Angela4Health Posts: 1,319 Member
    [....
  • sweetiepie31612
    sweetiepie31612 Posts: 240 Member
    I've suffered from severe cramping for awhile. I get them mostly in my toes and in my calf. I've tried EVERYTHING. Finally, my Dr. suggested Pedialyte. It works great. I have 1 8oz glass after my workout and have no problems. As soon as I stop taking it though, I cramp like crazy.
  • ivansmomma
    ivansmomma Posts: 500
    I agree with everyone else. When I was on dialysis, I had terrible cramps in my calves and toes, not only at night, but during the day. I did take potassium tablets every day. Try increasing your potassium and see what happens. Good luck.
  • macantrell
    macantrell Posts: 112 Member
    I've suffered from severe cramping for awhile. I get them mostly in my toes and in my calf. I've tried EVERYTHING. Finally, my Dr. suggested Pedialyte. It works great. I have 1 8oz glass after my workout and have no problems. As soon as I stop taking it though, I cramp like crazy.

    I will try this as well, mine are at night too. I get so frustrated and anxious, they are so defeating. I was told to take calcuim and magnesium, I take it in liquid form just before bed.
  • jkestens63
    jkestens63 Posts: 1,164 Member
    some people swear by pickle juice...also if you want potassium cantaloupe is higher than bananas
    Don't think I could drink pickle juice and the sodium would kill me. My trainer started me on a banana a day to combat the cramps and works like a charm. I have made it a habit of having it right after my workout. Canteloupe does have more potassium but not as portable, lol.
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