If you are experiencing leg cramps while you are swimming, there are various possible causes. Because swimming requires all the muscles of the body to work together to perform a single task -- getting to the other end of the pool -- it is important to keep them relaxed.
Identification
A leg cramp is an involuntary muscle contraction that can be quite painful. It can happen to anyone but occurs most often in athletes who work their muscles on a regular basis. The calf is the most common location of leg cramps and occurs when the muscle temporarily loses its natural ability to relax after a contraction. Muscle tendons can become overstretched, aggravating the nerves in your feet, which can result in a painful cramp.
Significance
Leg cramps while you are swimming may be the result of inappropriate flexing of your foot, according to Swim City. Pointing your toes while you are kicking can over-contract your muscles, leading to cramps. The correct kicking posture for your feet is to simply let your feet "flick around," according to Haydn Wooley in "Extreme Tri Magazine." Your ankles and toes will naturally pull back into the correct position without causing tension on your leg muscles.
Causes
There may be no exact cause for your leg cramps, but possible reasons include dehydration, an electrolyte imbalance, low carbohydrate levels or very tight muscles. Your muscles can go from a cramp to a spasm, where the contraction is continual. If this occurs, your muscle can become damaged because the fibers tear from the strength of the spasm. Medical conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid disease can interfere with blood circulation and cause muscle cramps.
Treatment
To help relieve your leg cramp, stretch your muscles. Gently massage them to stimulate blood flow. Physical therapy or rehabilitation may be necessary if you experience several bouts of cramps. To avoid dehydration or an electrolyte imbalance, drink plenty of water during your swim training and replenish with sports drinks. If you are unable to get out of the pool right away, try flexing your feet, pointing your toes toward the bottom of the pool and then let your muscles relax.
