In 2 weeks of regular swimming (2-3x weekly), I've gotten myself to over a half mile already. My speed has increased noticeably. From a tip I already picked up out here, my freestyle form is much more rythmic, and my *** stroke has is starting to take on the early signs of a butterfly.
But I've been having some really nasty cramping issues in my calves. I mean horrific pain and knotting.
What's a good way to combat that? Is it the water temperture that causes it? (the pool I swim in will never be mistaken for a jacuzzi)
Any tips or advice will be greatly appreciated.
Parents
Former Member
Though I occasionally suffer from cramping (usually in my feet) when I swim, the kind of recurring, really debilitating cramping you describe is usually a "beginning of the season" thing - in my experience anyway. If I've been away from the pool for any length of time the first few weeks back generally involve a period of cramping in muscles that are being pulled and twisted into different positions. For me the only way out is through...just keep on keepin on and it will all work out.
I'm guessing by your name that you're a runner so you probably know some good stretches for the calves and ankles, no? Stretching after cool down could help.
Good luck - I'm interested to hear what others suggest here
yeah, I run a lot, race regularly. :D
I thought about that, also thought about my pre-swim warmup (which, admitedly, isn't much right now but I'm going to start trying to get a little bead going before I hit the pool).
Thanks,
Though I occasionally suffer from cramping (usually in my feet) when I swim, the kind of recurring, really debilitating cramping you describe is usually a "beginning of the season" thing - in my experience anyway. If I've been away from the pool for any length of time the first few weeks back generally involve a period of cramping in muscles that are being pulled and twisted into different positions. For me the only way out is through...just keep on keepin on and it will all work out.
I'm guessing by your name that you're a runner so you probably know some good stretches for the calves and ankles, no? Stretching after cool down could help.
Good luck - I'm interested to hear what others suggest here
yeah, I run a lot, race regularly. :D
I thought about that, also thought about my pre-swim warmup (which, admitedly, isn't much right now but I'm going to start trying to get a little bead going before I hit the pool).
Thanks,
