While most medical professionals will tell you that regular exercise can help prevent many types of abdominal pain, it's still possible to suffer stomach cramps during a workout. Even low- to moderate-intensity cardio can cause stomach discomfort. The cause of this discomfort, however, can vary, so take note of everything surrounding your workout to determine what may be to blame.
Diet
Your diet could be contributing to your stomach cramps while exercising. But not so much the food itself, cramping is more related to when you're eating this food. This isn't to say you should skip a meal. Just make sure it's the appropriate size for its timing. As a general rule, eat small snacks an hour before working out, whereas small meals should be eaten two to three hour prior to exercise, according to MayoClinic.com.
Fluids
Stomach cramps can sometimes be the result of dehydration. Rice University notes that many gastrointestinal disturbances develop from this condition, particularly when you lose enough fluids to reduce body weight by 4 percent. Drinking plenty of water or even sports drinks before and periodically throughout your workout can often prevent this from happening.
Side Stitch
The cramping you're experiencing may not be a cramp at all. Instead, you could be suffering side stitch. Side stitch is a spasm-like pain within the abdomen believed to be the result of your diaphragm. With higher-intensity exercises, you're breathing tends to become more rapid and labored, which can tax the diaphragm. This can cause its muscles to spasm, leading to a cramp-like pain. Slowing down the pace and taking some deep breaths can often cause it to pass.
Warm-Up
Improper warm-ups are also known to contribute to stomach cramping. In this situation, it's not actually the stomach that's causing you discomfort. Rather, the muscles of your abdominal walls begin to spasm, making it feel as if you're suffering from stomach cramps. Take enough time, especially prior to lengthier workouts, to warm up by stretching the entire body, including your core.
References
- MedlinePlus; Abdominal Pain; October 2009
- MayoClinic.com; Eating and Exercise: 5 Tips to Maximize Your Workouts; December 2010
- Rice University; Abdominal Pain in Runners; December 1997
- New York Times; The Claim: Side Stitch? Change Your Posture; Anahad O'Connor; February 2011
- Military.com; How to Avoid Stomach Cramps When Running; Stew Smith
