How can teen athletes prevent muscle cramps?
Heat, dehydration and improper stretching or warmups can increase a growing athlete’s chance of getting muscle cramps. These tips can help teens prevent cramps and keep them on the field.
Drink plenty of water before practice: Thirty minutes before any sports activity, teens should drink water until they are no longer thirsty and then drink another 8 ounces.
Continue hydrating: Athletes should drink 8 ounces of either water or electrolyte beverages every 20 minutes of exercise. Electrolyte drinks are great recovery drinks after practice or games.
Stretch muscles every day and before activity: Whether it’s a dynamic warmup or activity-specific stretching, athletes should do some kind of warmup before and after any sports activity to prevent cramps.
Avoid sudden increase in activity: When returning from the offseason, slowly ease athletes back into activity over a few weeks’ time.
Discover muscle cramp treatments and more resources at choa.org/musclecramps.
This content is general information and is not specific medical advice. Always consult with a doctor or healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the health of a child. In case of an urgent concern or emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department right away.
