Cramp

[clarew]

Hi Guys,

Recently started to learn snorkelling. Unfortunately only after a few minutes or less I get gramp in my calves and toes. (fins are the right size)

I am slim, don't smoke and run 9 miles every other day with no problem.

Has anybody got any tips to avoid cramp.

Thanks

Clare

XX

 

[Groenberg]

Cramps often are a sign of a lack of magnesium. Especially the ones you described.
So just try to supplement your nutrition with magnesium and hopefully the cramps will stop.

 

[Lehmann108]

Do you get cramps without fins? If you don't, the fins don't fit you correctly. They could be too tight towards the front of your foot. Also, how is your kicking technique?

 

[Bill]

with fins you are using muscles in a different range than you are used to. I have the same trouble mixing fins and bicycle. Before diving, toe, Achilles and calf stretches will help.
Aloha
Bill

 

[DeepThought]

Also, are you sure you have enough thermal protection?

 

[Huw]

I am the same at the begining of every season. I think you use muscles that are otherwise never pushed that hard as they are when you use fins. Like bill said, stretches usually do the job fine for me. I think you will find that as you do more smorkling, the cramps will ease off very quickly. I have also heard that salt helps cramp, although i am sure that it is just an oldwives tale!


Huw

 

[BatRay]

Pointing your toes can lead to cramps. If you're doing that, try instead to keep your foot flexed a bit more. That's a problem for me; my worst cramp ever was during normal swimming when I pointed my toes too much. My leg contracted completely and took several minutes to relatx. Scary stuff.

 

[clarew]

Thanks for all the advice. By the way this is in a pool at 29 degrees C so I don't feel cold.

Clare

xx

 

[Almostafish]

Hi Clare

Sorry to butt in but can I ask where in Nottingham you are training? I can put you in touch with lots of other freedivers in your area if you wanted?

Cramps.. Bummer. I had both thighs cramp up on me yesterday spearfishing in a 2-3 knot current about 750m from shore with a large SMB in tow... Ahh.

Bryn Spencer

BFA Groups officer
AIDA instructor
Dogs body level **

 

[Spaniard]

It's probably just getting used to new muscle groups being used. If in the water when getting cramp in the calf then try and grab tip of fin and pull towards you which should provide relief in the calf muscle area. If toes are cramping the foot pocket might be very loose causing your toes to 'splay' within the fin for better purchase against the pocket. Are you wearing booties/socks?

 

[SEDATE]

if you strech your muscles 5min before entering the water , it helps you