There is no feeling like the feeling you get when you've reached your potential in your favourite Pilates class! Your class has been challenging but you've nailed it. You've got through your hundred without holding your tummy because of that 'burn'. Your breathing has been on point and you've stretched that little bit further then you did last week. But then comes that crippling cramp :(
I run several mat classes and reformer classes each week & more often then not I will see 2-3 people cramping. Sometimes it can be due to moving too quickly to get into a certain stretch. It can also be due to prolonged periods of time in a position in work life which cause muscles to become short and tight. Pointing of the toes which is used frequently in a Pilates class which can bring on that dreadful foot cramp, which is most common. Mostly I find when I ask the question have you drank much water today?... the answer is 'no'.
So here are a few simple tips I like to give my clients if they are suffering from cramps:
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate.
Include some magnesium rich foods in your diet
Foam roll any tight muscles especially the sole of the foot (if that's where your cramps are coming from). A tennis ball is ideal for this area.
There may be a number of other reasons for cramping but generally in my practice once these issues are addressed you can continue to enjoy your Pilates class cramp free!!
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