While it’s important to make sure you have the right swim backpack and other accessories, such as swim parkas for fall or swim team warm ups, it’s also necessary to make sure you take care of your body. One of the biggest problems swimmers encounter is muscle cramps. These cramps can make it difficult to swim and could even put you at risk of injury or worse. Therefore, it’s important for every swimmer to learn how to avoid these cramps, particularly through eating a proper diet.

Sodium Intake

One theory regarding the cause of muscle cramps in swimmers is dehydration, which is often caused by inadequate sodium levels. It may seem unlikely to become dehydrated when you are immersed in water, but like all other forms of exercise, your body needs electrolytes to function properly. When you burn them off while swimming, you need to increase your sodium intake to keep up with your body’s demand. Keeping a good source of sodium, such as pretzels or nuts, on hand can help you replenish your body’s supply.

Drink Plenty of Water

Another great way to defeat dehydration is by drinking plenty of water while you swim. Carrying a bottle of water with you allows you to take a couple of sips between laps or races. However, water isn’t the only source of hydration swimmers should use. Sports drinks are often infused with sodium to further increase your intake so you can continue to perform well. You can also add 1/3 teaspoon of sat to a liter of sports drink if you feel you need even more sodium.

Other Ways to Help

While nutrition is one of the best ways to avoid muscle cramps, wearing the right gear can help. Another theory on the cause of cramping is cooling off too quickly after a workout. This is why most swimmers purchase swim parkas for fall swimming meets and practices or wear swim team warm ups at practices and meets. This will keep your muscles warm longer and slow down the cooling process to prevent cramps.

Muscle cramps can be a sign of a more serious condition and shouldn’t be ignored. Instead, it’s important for swimmers to learn how to prevent them to ensure safe swimming. Proper nutrition, including staying hydrated and increasing sodium intake, can both have a positive impact on your overall health and well being.

If you are looking for new swim parkas for fall or swim team warm ups, contact us. We carry a vast selection so you can find exactly what you need to prevent cramping and stay warm.