Influence of Hydration and Electrolyte Supplementation on Incidence and Time to Onset of Exercise-Associated Muscle Cramps
Jung AP, Bishop PA, Al-Nawwas A, Dale RB
Published in J Athl Train, Vol. 40 (2), pp. 71-75
Methodology
Two counterbalanced trials in 13 college-aged men with a history of exercise-associated cramps, who did a calf-fatiguing protocol at 37 °C. In one trial they drank a carbohydrate-electrolyte drink with added salt at roughly their sweat rate; in the other they drank nothing.
Key Findings
Nine men cramped with the drink and seven without it. In the seven who cramped in both trials, cramps began after 36.8 minutes with the drink versus 14.6 minutes without (P < .01).
Conclusions
Fluid and electrolytes may delay exercise cramps, but 69% still cramped while hydrated and supplemented.
Limitations
Small; no blinding; comparator was no fluid at all, so water alone was not tested; onset data from only 7 men.
Supplements Studied
carbohydrate-electrolyte beverage before and during exercise in a hot environment may delay the onset
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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