Why a Stomach Cramps Up During Stomach Workouts

Stomach cramps can result from a number of sources, from strain in the abdominal muscles to an upset stomach to more severe organ trouble. While stomach cramps can indicate a serious medical condition, abdominal exercise cramps are most often the result of muscle strain and dehydration, and can be easily remedied.

Types

Pain that originates in the muscles themselves is typically caused by overuse or strain of the abdominal muscles, often resulting from vigorous and prolonged abdominal exercises. Pain that feels like a stomach ache is the result of gastrointestinal or other internal problems, and may be the result of recently consumed food or a more serious condition.

Features

Stomach cramps feature intense and immediate feelings of specific, localized pain. Abdominal cramps can usually be pinpointed in a specific quadrant of the abdomen, such as the upper or lower abdomen and the left or right side of the body. Because muscle cramps can result from dehydration, they are more common in warm weather than cold weather.

Considerations

Stomach cramps while exercising may be caused by an upset stomach. You may be especially prone to stomach cramps if you consumed certain foods or drinks immediately before you do intense exercise. Foods high in fat, protein, fiber, dairy, and sugar are more likely to result in cramping during exercise.

Prevention/Solution

One way to prevent abdominal exercise cramps in the muscles is to stay hydrated before and during exercise and to eat a diet high in potassium, calcium, and magnesium. People who experience stomach cramps should also evaluate the types of foods that seem to result in cramping and avoid eating those foods within 30 minutes of exercising. Muscle cramping can be relieved by lying flat or standing up straight to align the muscles and stretching the arms up over the head. Avoid hunching or contracting the abdomen to relieve muscle pain.

Warning

Acute abdominal pain that occurs during exercise may also indicate a more serious medical condition. Appendicitis, kidney problems, irritable bowel syndrome, thyroid or other hormone disorders, diabetes, low blood sugar, and anemia can all cause stomach cramps during exertion or rest. If your stomach pain is acute and persistent, and does not go away after you drink water, stretch, and rest the muscles or change pre-exercise eating habits, see a doctor to make sure you are not experiencing a more serious condition.

References

• Medline Plus
• MedicineNet.com
• MayoClinic.com