I woke up this morning with an awful cramp in my calf. In spite of it I decided to go running; I was rather impressed with my time and mileage might I add. Regardless, this cramp like many others could have been prevented. Though there is no conclusive scientific evidence of how to prevent or cure muscle cramps, there are theories.
My favorite theories include eating a balanced diet and stretching after exercise. I didn't get to eat my potassium rich banana yesterday so that could have been a reason. Most likely though, it was because I did not stretch out my right calf as well as I should have after yesterday's group exercise class.
An awesome calf stretch from Yoga is Downward Facing Dog or Adho Mukha Svanasana.
1. Start in high plank, essentially the top of a push up except that your hands are placed directly under your shoulders.
2. Push your hips up and back into the air keeping your back and arms straight forming a nice line. Your legs should also form a line. It's perfectly fine for your heels to not touch the floor.
3. For this stretch, bend your left knee and push your right heel down. This will make your right leg straight; you should feel the stretch in this calf.
4. Hold stretch for 5 full breaths (in and out = 1). Repeat on other side.
5. Repeat again!
It is absolutely recommended that you stretch after you exercise. Your muscles are super warm and limber. This is the time to lengthen them out after contracting them during your work out. You will prevent injury, have better form, and be more flexible overall. Please stretch each muscle for 30 seconds. I know that seems absurdly long compared to how much you stretched in high school sports but, seriously, it's the only way for stretching to be truly beneficial.
In health,
Lauren
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