Stomach pain while you're exercising can stem from several different causes, some of which may resolve on their own and some of which may require medical treatment. If you have recurrent stomach pain while you're exercising, it may be cramping, and you may just need to slow down and do some massage. If your stomach pain persists, discuss it with your physician.
Muscle Cramps
Abdominal muscle cramps, also known as "a stitch in your side," are the most common type of stomach pain while exercising. A side stitch occurs when the muscles in your abdomen cramp in response to intense exercise. You'll feel the cramp as an intense, almost stabbing pain, either on one side or across your entire abdomen. To stop a side stitch, slow down to a measured pace and massage the muscles where it hurts.
Digestive Pain
Your stomach pain while exercising may stem from your stomach itself. Many athletes, especially runners, experience gastrointestinal effects from their exercise. These can include flatulence, bloating and stomach cramps. Although researchers haven't yet determined why some athletes get these symptoms, dehydration may play a large role. Therefore, drink plenty of liquids both before and during your exercise.
For Women
If you're female, you might experience menstrual cramps or other reproductive health issues that feel like stomach pain during exercise. According to "Running Times" magazine, potential disorders that can cause pain in your abdomen include fibroids, which are growths in your uterus, and endometriosis, which is the abnormal growth of the lining your uterus.
Considerations
Stomach pain while you're exercising also might stem from an infection in your pelvis or abdomen, such as a urinary tract infection. If you're relatively new to exercise or if you're pushing yourself to your limits, you may be working out too hard and need to slow down.
