Calf Cramps...?

[stoatsngroats]

You may have read that I’ve managed to cycle quite a bit more recently, and I’m nourishing and hydrating correctly (I think).
Last night I had the worst calf cramp I’ve had for a long long time, through the night, and still with pain now, although thankfully the spasms did end during early morning.
Ive been eating principally vegan/vegetarian for the last 4 years, but this week have had chips for evening meal on 3 occasions, with pizza twice.
I also did a 4 mile walk, along the sand and pebbles, after being desk bound the whole day.
I have an idea That my electrolytes may have been low, and possibly low hydration too... any other ideas..?

 

[Drago]

The moment it strikes whack a bag of frozen peas on it. As a last resort drench it at close range from a deodorant spray. The cold causes the muscles to relax almost instantly.

 

[stoatsngroats]

Oh, cool! I have frozen peas! I wish I’d known that last night 😜
Thanks!

 

[Ming the Merciless]

Why low hydration, pee the colour of Guinness ?

 

[HMS_Dave]

I get it in my sleep. I jump up in agony. There is an exercise which can get rid of it quite quickly. I have it well nailed down now, It goes almost immediately when i start the exercise. It is painful at first, almost paralysing but try it.

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lszfY-_kQ4

 

[stoatsngroats]

Why low hydration, pee the colour of Guinness ?

😂 no, not quite, just didn’t have much to drink during the day, maybe one cup of tea in the afternoon and the usual morning coffee...

 

[T.M.H.N.E.T]

My guess would be a touch of over use. The soleus and the gastrocnemius (the calves) aren't power generating muscles in the pedal stroke, but stabilising ones.

You say you've increased your riding a good bit more + a walk over sand and pebbles would definitely contribute

 

[gavroche]

I often get cramps in my right leg at night ( always the right leg incidentally) and I put it down to my medication ( statins ). A small price to pay for a lower cholesterol.

 

[Drago]

@gavroche youd get less cramps if you had an ebike.

 

[Colin Grigson]

Try a soluble Mg tablet in a glass of water after a ride ... and extra salt on your food if it’s been a long one - works for me