So, I bit the bullet and did my first OWS race this past weekend in Wilmington, NC (Swim the Loop- 3.5 mile option). The biggest problem that I had during the race was leg (specifically calf) and foot cramping. I was able to work it out and finish the race, but I have never had cramps that bad either in the pool (1650,1000, 500) or in my OW lake swims (3 miles). Was it the salt water? I had plenty of fluids prior to the swim (water and gatorade & a small cup of coffee) and in the days prior to it. I also had some water and gatorade at the 1 mile and 2 mile aid stations to try and help out. Any suggestions? I am looking at possibly doing the Low Country Splash in Charleston, SC (2.4 or 5 mile) next spring/summer (2018) and would rather not have a repeat performance. Thanks in advance.
Personally I am also very susceptible to similar cramps although they have only happened to me in the pool. I do know that electrolytes and hydration are important to reduce the cramps, but I will still get them if we do hard kick sets or lots of sprinting (I am not a natural sprinter). I also find that *** stroke kick when I am tired sets them off. Keeping these factors in mind, I am extremely careful to avoid hard kicking during OW swims and to be well hydrated. I always drink a bottle of gatorade immediately before the OW race. Sounds like you did the hydration and electrolyte part correctly. Perhaps it was the sprint at the end? Realistically it is hard to be fully hydrated after swimming in seawater for a long time. Can't help but accidentally ingest at least a little...
Personally I am also very susceptible to similar cramps although they have only happened to me in the pool. I do know that electrolytes and hydration are important to reduce the cramps, but I will still get them if we do hard kick sets or lots of sprinting (I am not a natural sprinter). I also find that *** stroke kick when I am tired sets them off. Keeping these factors in mind, I am extremely careful to avoid hard kicking during OW swims and to be well hydrated. I always drink a bottle of gatorade immediately before the OW race. Sounds like you did the hydration and electrolyte part correctly. Perhaps it was the sprint at the end? Realistically it is hard to be fully hydrated after swimming in seawater for a long time. Can't help but accidentally ingest at least a little...
