Stomach cramps that occur following a set of abdominal crunches may relate to a number of causes. These include hunger, a lack of water, or heat related illnesses such as heat exhaustion caused by a drop in your electrolyte levels. However, in more serious and chronic cases stomach cramps after crunches could mean that you have irritable bowel syndrome.
Hunger
Depending on how recently you ingested your last meal before you began your workout, stomach cramps that occur after crunches may mean that your body needs food. Stomach cramps often occur as a result of simple hunger. In this case the best way to avoid stomach cramps during crunches is to carry snacks with you so you can eat immediately after you train.
Dehydration
Stomach cramps may also occur during abdominal crunches if your body needs water. In cases of dehydration the cramps will be accompanied by other symptoms including dry mouth, dizziness, thirst, fatigue and a flushing of your skin. If you are dehydrated it will also impair your physical performance, so you will also run out of energy for your workout quickly. Dehydration can be avoided by keeping a water bottle filled and available while you perform your crunches.
Heat Exhaustion
Stomach cramps after crunches can also indicate heat related problems such as heat exhaustion. This applies if you perform crunches in an overheated or poorly ventilated gym, or if you exercise outdoors in hot, humid weather -- conditions that interfere with the body's sweating mechanism. Heat exhaustion means that your body is having trouble keeping itself cool, and the stomach cramps will be accompanied by other symptoms such as confusion, weakness and rapid heartbeat. Heat exhaustion can become serious very quickly, so if these symptoms apply stop exercising immediately and get out of the heat as quickly as you can.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
In some cases stomach cramps after abdominal crunches may indicate a more severe gastrointestinal issue such as irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome is not technically a disease; it represents a constellation of symptoms that occur when the bowel doesn't function as it should. Stomach cramps are one of the hallmarks of irritable bowel syndrome. Other symptoms include bloating, gas and diarrhea. Speak to your doctor if these symptoms apply.
