Dealing With Leg Cramps When Running
Severe cramping in a calf muscle is not uncommon among distance runners. If this happens to you and you want to complete your run, try the following steps to alleviate the pain and spasms.
- Stop running and stretch the calf muscle. If the cramp returns soon after you begin running again, you may have to stop and stretch a few more times.
- Apply firm pressure to the muscle and hold for about 20 seconds.
- Run at a slower pace until you feel confident the pain has resolved.
- Drink a sports beverage with electrolytes.
