Calf Cramps during the swimming leg

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2007-12-13 6:10 PM

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Subject: Calf Cramps during the swimming leg
I have a problem with getting cramps in my calfs during the swim portion of early season tri's and while taking off my wet suit in transition. Does anyone have any suggestions? The swimming leg is my weakest event so any help would be valuable.

2007-12-13 6:20 PM
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Subject: RE: Calf Cramps during the swimming leg

I've had that occasionally.  The cure for me was to make sure I was kicking during the swim.  I have a tendency to get lazy and just let my legs drag.  By concentrating on a steady kick, it helped the cramping situation.

 

2007-12-14 2:42 PM
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Subject: RE: Calf Cramps during the swimming leg

I get calf cramps when I swim in the pool and at times in ows when I change what I'm doing..ie stop or kick weird and have had them in transition.

For me it is mostly a sodium issue. Before I swim be it training or racing I take 500 mg of sodium and be sure to drink something with sodium in it usually nuuns. It has made a huge difference for me.

2007-12-14 2:48 PM
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Subject: RE: Calf Cramps during the swimming leg
How often do you swim long intervals in training? The fact that you indicate that it happens in early season would indicate that it is a fitness issue. More than likely it is due to the lack of having to hold your foot in the kicking position for time periods equal (or longer if you race short course) to that of your swim time in the race.

If this is the case, the most likely solution will be to swim more and also include some longer straight swims in your workouts.

Shane
2007-12-14 2:54 PM
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Subject: RE: Calf Cramps during the swimming leg
I think this is a pretty common issue, I have had the same problem and I have heard plenty of other people complain about it as well. I don't have much insight how to stop it though. I actually usually get it when I kick more. It seems like in general cramps are usually due to hydration/electrolyte issues though.
2007-12-14 8:33 PM
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Subject: RE: Calf Cramps during the swimming leg

I think it happens to a lot of people. well, it happened to me at my longest OW tri.  if  you're kicking correctly,  your toes will be pointed, therefore your calf will naturally contract or tense up.  keep your toes pointed long enough, a cramp is bound to happen.   flex your feet a couple times and press on!

 ~B

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