MoapaPk wrote:We had a similar discussion a year or so ago. One fellow presented articles suggesting that cramps were more due to overuse, with little contribution from hydration or electrolytes in the short run.
In one study, the hydration and electrolyte levels of runners were monitored. Those who got cramps (during athletic activities) did not have hydration or electrolyte levels significantly different from those who did not. Bear in mind that all started the activity with proper levels.
Took me a bit, but I found that article.
http://www.sportsscientists.com/2007/11/muscle-cramps-part-1-theories-and.html
I've been testing that theory, unscientifically, by doing my long slow runs w/o taking in electrolytes. At a very easy pace (under 135bpm HR) I've done runs up to 11 hours w/o anything but water... and no cramping.
I think maybe there's something to it, though I'm just an experiment of one.