Calf Cramps

[Palmtag]

After hard and fast workouts I usually get some pretty gnarly calf cramps. They usually occur when I’m doing something that is at about 85-90% my max pace and with a fairly moderate recovery. (training for the 800) After workouts like that, or any fast workout, I get problems with my calves SERIOUSLY cramping up. Drinking water seems to help, but not enough to stop them. Eating a banana was recomended by one of my coaches as they have copious amounts of potassium and that’s somehow supposed to keep me from cramping.

Is there anything I should be eating or drinking that I’m not?

[no23]

High protein diet - low carbs, acidic buildup?
I got some good advice a few weeks back - have a look back through the archives…

[Supervenomsuperman]

@Palmtag

After hard and fast workouts I usually get some pretty gnarly calf cramps. They usually occur when I’m doing something that is at about 85-90% my max pace and with a fairly moderate recovery. (training for the 800) After workouts like that, or any fast workout, I get problems with my calves SERIOUSLY cramping up. Drinking water seems to help, but not enough to stop them. Eating a banana was recomended by one of my coaches as they have copious amounts of potassium and that’s somehow supposed to keep me from cramping.

Is there anything I should be eating or drinking that I’m not?

You should be doing standing calve raises in a squat rack with side supports with free wts and work on your calve flexibility.

[t-bone]

Make sure you’re hydrated well before your runs. STRETCH STRETCH STRETCH, try ZMA if you’re not already on that!

Supervenomsuperman- whats your reason for adding more calf work?

[Supervenomsuperman]

@t-bone

Make sure you’re hydrated well before your runs. STRETCH STRETCH STRETCH, try ZMA if you’re not already on that!

Supervenomsuperman- whats your reason for adding more calf work?

Check out the thread Calve Raises in the Strength forum it should be on the first page with about 60 replies!

[NumberTwo]

Try supplementing with Magnesium, as it can provide better results than potassium in some individuals.

[jumpman]

Yes, I would also go with magnesium supplementation and better hydration. I mean, your urine should be clear before your workout.