Getting a stomach cramp while swimming can not only be alarming, it can be dangerous. If swimming in an pool, it may be easy for you to grab a rope to rest or get assistance from another swimmer or life guard. However, if you are swimming in open waters, it may be difficult to rest as your cramp resolves. Contrary to common belief, no guidelines exist in regard to eating before swimming, and no documented cases of drowning with a full stomach have been reported, according to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Because stomach cramps can make swimming difficult, use certain techniques to get rid of muscle cramps in the stomach when swimming.
Step 1
Rest to get rid of a cramp in the stomach when swimming. According to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, swimming after a meal may cause a diversion of blood flow from your muscles to your digestive tract. The relative low blood oxygen levels in your abdominal muscles, in particular, causes them to cramp, which can be painful and limit your swimming progress. Therefore, resting or slowing your pace will decrease muscle oxygen consumption and allow your abdominal muscles to receive the oxygen they need to stop cramping.
Step 2
Drink water to get rid of a stomach cramp when swimming. According to Rice University, your gastrointestinal system may be the source of cramping in the stomach when swimming, although this is less likely to occur in comparison to runners. The cause of gastrointestinal discomfort during exercise may occur because of dehydration. Dehydration in swimming may be go unrecognized because it is hard to tell how hard you are sweating, In addition, it may be difficult for you to drink water while swimming, particularly if swimming in open waters. If in a pool, take breaks every 10 to 15 minutes to rehydrate. If in open waters, swim close to shore so you can take water breaks frequently.
Step 3
Stretch your abdominal muscle if your cramp is not resolving, recommends BeginnerTriathlete.com. In the case of swimming, you may need to get out of the pool or onto dry land to perform abdominal stretches. In this case, you should perform the Cobra stretch to relieve abdominal cramps. To perform the move, lay flat on the ground with your face down. Put your hands at the level of your chest with your palms facing down. Push your upper body up, while keeping your thighs on the ground to stretch your stomach. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds and repeat as often as you need to.
Tips and Warnings
- Eat a well-balance meal consisting of fruits, vegetables, legumes, lean meats, whole grains and low-fat dairy to prevent stomach cramps.
- Do not try to swim through a cramp. It may make it difficult for you to stay above water, which can be life threatening.
