Relieve the pain of leg cramps caused by cardio workouts.
According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, cramps after exercise generally occur in the back of the calves, back of the thighs and front of the thighs. These cramps are caused by a muscle that is contracted and cannot relax. Some people are more likely to suffer from post-exercise cramps, including the elderly, children and athletes that participate in strenuous physical activities, such as distance runners. It is possible to get rid of cramps quickly after an intense cardiac workout.
Instructions
1. Stop whatever activity was causing the cramp immediately. Avoid attempting to work the cramp out by continuing to exercise as this could cause the cramping to become more excessive.
2. Place a cold pack on the tender, strained muscles. Hold the cold against the affected area for 15 minutes, or until the cramp has ended. The cold will help the muscle relax, which will effectively end the cramping pain.
3. Stretch the muscle that is experiencing the cramp. Rub the affected area while this is occurring as well. For instance, if the cramp is occurring in the calf muscle, place your body weight onto the affected leg and bend your knee slightly forward.
4. Soak the cramped muscle in a hot bath. The heat from the water will soothe the contracted muscle and help relax it to its former state.
5. Drink water or an electrolyte replacement liquid, such as Gatorade, throughout and after the cardio workout. Cramping can occur when the body is depleted of fluids. Gatorade especially will replenish the body's fluids that are lost through sweat.
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