Cramping My Style

Question:

I have two questions about cramps: How can I avoid or prevent cramps just
above my knees, in my quads? And how can I stretch out cramps in that area?

Submitted by – Jay – Brunswick, GA

Answer:

Cramps in thigh muscles (and other leg muscles) are most often caused by

dehydration. Stiff muscles are a less common cause, as is a depletion of key

minerals, especially salt. So . . . you might avoid the cramps by staying

hydrated, snacking regularly when you’re exercising (and being sure there is

a little salt in the snack), and doing some gentle stretching of the thighs

when they start to feel tight.

A generally safe thigh stretch is to stand holding on to something, say a

tree, and grab hold of an ankle with the opposite hand. Lean forward,

pulling the leg you’re holding gently up until you feel the stretch. A

little experimentation will tell you which direction and how much pull works

for you.