Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Side Cramps while exercising...

You are in the middle of a calorie burning workout when it hits - that pinch in your side that takes your breath away. Try the following remedies to help make the pain go away.

1. Stretch - reach your arms overhead for 20 seconds. Keeping your arms raised, lean towards the side that is not cramping, and hold for 20 seconds. And repeat until you feel relief. The other great stretch is to take a seat on the ground, cross your right foot over the left leg, and give your right leg a hug. Repeat on the other side, hold each for 20 seconds.

2. Add Salt - Sprinkle a packet of salt on your tongue and then take a sip of water. Sodium helps muscles absorb water, which should also help alleviate cramping.

3. Breathe - Decrease your pace, and inhale through your nose for about 3 - 4 seconds, and exhale through the mouth for about 6 - 7 seconds. Repeat until the cramp subsides. Exhaling slowly helps to release the tension in your diaphragm.

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