Cramping up on the bike
Ever since my bike time got bumped up to 3.5 hour rides (ie, the last two weeks) I have had considerable cramping of my leg muscles between my knees and hips (quads, flexors, hamstrings, etc.). This starts around 2:45 minutes into the ride, and is excruciating until I get off. I am a salty sweater and take endurolytes, but they don't seem to be doing a thing for me. Odd things is, after five minutes or so on the brick run I am fine. Now I am confused because I don't know if it is a nutrition problem, bike fit problem, or maybe my body just not adjusting the to the training volume yet.
Any ideas?
Nicole
0
Comments
1. I used endurolytes until I figured out that it required 20/HR to help my cramping. So, look up s-caps...they have 231mg per capsule instead of 40mg. Helps! I would also check to make sure you are taking in 1.5 bottles of water per hour...I find it is sometimes hard to do that when it is cold out, and I often neglect proper hydration early in the season unless I really think about it.
2. If #1 doesn't help...certainly consider that it could be a fit issue. Were you professionally fitted originally, or any time in the recent past? If not, it would be a good time to try that!
Wish you the best!
S!Caps are much, much better than Endurlytes for those who need higher sodium needs.
I have been fitted on my bike, but maybe I am pedaling funny or my position on the seat is funny or something. Haven't tried the sweat trial, but will look it up on the WIKI. I do know I am usually lighter weightwise after my long rides. Now that I think about it when I am seriously training for marathons I also suffer from leg cramping despite taking endurolytes. I am making the switch to S caps due to all your recommendations and will let you know how it goes. Thanks EN members for setting me on a better path.