Working out places stress on your abdominal muscles and digestive system, which can lead to abdominal strains, muscle cramps and digestive problems, all of which can have sharp pain in the stomach as a symptom. Knowing what other signs and symptoms to look for can help you determine how best to treat your pain. If the pain is severe or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or blood in the stool, seek immediate medical attention.
Abdominal Strain
If your sharp pain gets worse when you move, is localized and the painful area feels stiff, you may have an abdominal strain. Strains are the result of small tears in the muscle of your abdomen. Severe tears are known as ruptures and are often accompanied by swelling or bruising. If you suspect a strain, contact your doctor for a diagnosis. In the meantime, you can treat mild to moderate strains with rest, ice and over-the-counter pain medications. If the pain is severe or if bruising and swelling are present, seek immediate medical attention.
Digestive Problems
A variety of digestive issues can lead to sharp pains in your stomach or abdomen, including not eating enough or eating too much before working out, workout-related dehydration, food sensitivities, eating foods that are hard to digest before working out, and aggravation of underlying gastrointestinal problems. Consuming substances that can irritate your gastric lining, such as high doses of vitamin C, caffeine, carbonated beverages and alcohol, can have the same effect. Sharp pain that results from digestive problems may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as gas, bloating, nausea, diarrhea, belching and possibly vomiting. Digestive-related pains may be colicky, meaning they come and go.
Cramps
Cramps are a result of a muscle's forcibly and involuntarily contracting and not relaxing, and are a common occurrence in the abdomen and stomach area during exercise. Severe cramps can cause a sharp, stabbing pain. While the exact cause of cramps is not known, dehydration, eating too much just before working out, erratic breathing patterns during exercise, and electrolyte imbalances can all be contributing factors. Cramps are usually temporary, but may come and go over several minutes or hours. Stretching the muscle and massaging the affected area help dissipate cramps in many cases. Severe, relentless cramps require medical attention.
Prevention
Taking steps before and during your workout can help you avoid many types of stomach or abdominal pain, including cramps, strains and digestive issues. Warm up before working out, gently stretch your abdominal muscles, and include a post-workout cool-down period. Avoid pushing your muscles to the point of fatigue. Take breaks to rest during long workouts, and get plenty of sleep the night before. Make any changes in your workout gradually over a period of days or weeks, avoiding sudden increases in frequency, duration or intensity. Stay hydrated by drinking water before, during and after your workout, but drink slowly and avoid drinking too much water, which can cause a sharp, cramping pain. Eat a full meal at least two to hour hours before working out to allow for proper digestion, and avoid substances or foods that might lead to digestive problems during exercise. Focus on taking smooth, even breaths during your workout. Consult a doctor if you consistently experience sharp stomach pain after working out.
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