Running cramps are all too common and runners are bombarded with different theories as to what causes cramping and what to do about it. If you’re a “f#*% the science” type person and don’t care what causes running cramps, go directly to Part III of this series and learn how to avoid them. But if […]
Running Cramps Part I: Hydration, Cramping and Running Form
On July 14, 2012 I raced in my seventh Knee Knackering North Shore Trail Run. It’s almost an annual tradition for me and one of my favourite ultras because the challenging course provides lots of technical trail with almost no flat sections. It involves 8,000′ of climbing and 8.300′ of descending over 30 miles. Woo-hoo!!! […]
Leg Cramps and Long Distance Running
Many runners and triathletes will experience leg cramps running long distance runs and races. Using a definition from Dr. Martin Schwellnus a cramp is “a painful, spasmodic, involuntary contraction of skeletal muscle that occurs during or immediately after exercise”. While most athletes understand what a cramp feels like there is much confusion as to what […]