Surfed cold, but not frigid, RI this afternoon, and my feet cramped completely . . . Like two blocks of wood. Thus happen to anyone else in the cold? I had Drylock 7 mm boots with dive socks on, they do make he boots very snug . . .
Yes. For me, its usually my calves through. I used to get absolutely terrible cramps, but haven't had them in a while. In the cold, its easier for your muscles to get real tight and cramp.
I know what you mean. Try drinking lots of water before sessions. You may be getting dehydrated. Muscles tend to cramp up when they need water.
On top of the water which is important, eat a banana before you go out, get a little bit of potassium.
Significant temperature change, dehydration, low potassium and low calcium can cause cramping in calves and feet. I had the onset of cramping in the arches of my feet a couple times last week while out. To stop, I'd stretch the arch of the cramping foot by pointing the big toe upward toward my knee. Cramping in foot or calve would happen sometimes while swimming laps.
Bananas, coconut water, lots of water, warming and loosening up your muscles pre-sesh, my friend. Helped me defeat brutal calf cramps.
For me- I found it comes from pointing my feet and toes when I paddle a short board in the old water... #watersalwayswarminbelmar
Loose the socks, and loosen the strap going across your foot. Whenever this has happened to me it has been because of poor circulation and not because it was cold.. Either way you should still be drinking water pre and post sesh.
+1 on the bananas/coconut water thing. I drink coconut water before every sesh and it has really been helping with the dreaded fin cramps...
Oh yeah, absolutely. Cramps are typically caused by either electrolyte loss or fatigue. If you're in the cold you're shivering and burning a lot more energy just maintaining body heat. Eat well and hydrate before any surf, especially in the cold. I find it helps.
All great advice. I got the next size up boots and was better today. I am really bad about hydration and I never eat. It's why I can't paddle after the first hour!
