A cramp is an involuntary muscular contraction, which appears at rest or after exercise, paralyzing our muscles for several seconds, or even several minutes!
HOW TO EXPLAIN THIS REACTION?
Mostly, a cramp appears after exercise. It reflects too intense sporting activity. During exercise, certain molecules such as calcium or lactic acid accumulate in our muscles. The accumulation continues even after sport. As a result, the muscle is over-excited compared to the intensity it must provide, which is when the cramp appears.
These involuntary contractions can also occur at rest. Our muscles need energy to contract but also to relax. A cramp therefore means that our muscles no longer have enough glucose, and therefore the energy necessary to relax properly. The cramp can also be associated with a water imbalance.
IN ORDER TO PREVENT THE APPEARANCE OF CRAMPS, YOU MUST:
- Warm up properly before our workouts
- Do not neglect stretching after our workouts
- Get enough rest between sports sessions
- Sleep between 7-9am every night
- Hydrate properly and avoid exciting and diuretic drinks
- Pay attention to sports positions/techniques
- Eat healthily and favor foods rich in magnesium, potassium, and vitamins B1 & B2
- Activate our blood circulation by walking
- Take the plunge!
