When you have stomach cramps, the last thing you may feel like doing is exercising. However, exercise may help relieve your cramps, especially if they are caused by your menstrual cycle. If the pain worsens during exercise, discontinue and consult your doctor. Additional remedies, such as over-the-counter pain relievers and heating pads, may also be effective in easing stomach cramps. Consult your doctor about exercising to ease stomach cramps.
Aerobics
Aerobic exercise eases stomach cramps by releasing endorphins into your body. Endorphins work as pain blockers, and ease the pain of abdominal discomfort. Spend at least 30 minutes participating in activities that raise your heart rate, such as jogging, step aerobics, kickboxing, cycling and tennis.
Core Workouts
Strengthen your core muscles. When you have a strong core, you are less likely to feel cramping in that area, including the stomach. Core exercises include crunches and bicycles. To perform a crunch, lie flat on your back with your knees bent and hands behind your head. Lift your shoulders off the floor and contract your ab muscles. Release to the floor, and repeat for two sets of 12 reps. For bicycles, lie flat on your back with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle, hands behind your head. Push your legs out as if you are pedaling a bike. Lift your right elbow to your left knee and left elbow to your right knee. Aim for two to three sets of 12 reps.
Yoga
Yoga is a form of exercise used to ease stomach cramps. Yoga includes certain poses that help your body relax, and yoga's rhythmic breathing also lets you relax your body to help ease pain. Suggested yoga poses to ease cramps include bridge pose, downward facing dog and forward bend.
Considerations
Certain forms of exercise, like running, can cause stomach cramps. Take preventative measures to keep stomach cramps from occurring during intense forms of exercise. Never run on a full stomach. Avoid drinking large amounts of water, as well. Instead, take small sips before and during exercise.
