In article <
[email protected]>,
Dogfighting <
[email protected]> wrote:
> Hello,
>
> I have cycled for many years without leg cramps, but now I am getting
> them fairly bad.
>
> Is there a webpage around that outlines a plan of action to deal with
> this problem ?
Well, my first advice is to simply try eating some Tums during or at the
end of your rides. Seriously- the calcium seems to relieve leg cramps.
I did a 217 km brevet yesterday in 25-35 mph winds (it was a sloooow
ride) and made a point of drinking some milk at most of the rest stops
and eating a few Tums, as well as eating four bananas and some salty
almonds to try to prevent potassium and sodium depletion, and had zero
leg cramps during or after the ride. No cramps or muscle spasms last
night while sleeping. And no muscle pain today, either; my legs just
feel a little tired. If it weren't for the 25-30 mph winds continuing
today I'd go for a recovery ride.
My second advice is to talk to your doctor and make sure you don't have
circulatory issues in your legs aren't taking a medication that can
cause muscle cramps, etc. Google "claudication." I have read that
cyclists are prone to developing stenosis of the femoral arteries around
the pelvis, although I have seen no critical literature to support that
contention.