Thanks for hitting us back! We’re rounding out our conversation on side stitches with today’s post.
If you’re just joining us, the last two posts have focused on what side stitches are, and how to prevent them. That leaves us with how to treat them when they start to occur.
Keep reading for valuable tips on what you should do to treat your side cramps when they occur. Did you know that the best gym in Raleigh NC to help you meet your health goals is CrossFit Invoke? You’ll love our free fitness classes. Call us today to learn more!
Tips for Treating Side Cramps
As we mentioned in part one, side cramps are a common ailment for many people who exercise, especially ones that like to jog or run for distance. It’s something that most of us have had to deal with. Then in part two, we listed out several tips that you can do before and during your exercise that will prevent side stitches from starting. However, what happens if you get a side cramp in the middle of a run, race, or other competition?
Use these tips below when you get hit with a stitch:
First, we suggest that you take in a huge chest breath as fast as possible. This will help force your diaphragm down. Hold this breath for a few seconds and then exhale through pursed lips as fast as possible.
Next, gently push your fingers into the cramping flank (side). This will temporarily reduce your pain.
Next you’ll need to alter your breathing pattern and get it in rhythm with your stride. This could be the initial cause in the first place. If you are exhaling every time your left foot hits the ground, switch it to the right foot and see if it makes a difference.
If these are not working for you, stop running and walk briskly instead. Take a few seconds to relax and concentrate on your deep breathing. When the stitch goes away, start running again.
Finally, you may need to stop completely for a few seconds to catch your breath. When doing so, take a moment to bend over, touch your toes, and hold it for a few minutes. Redirecting some of your blood flow away from your diaphragm might help.
If you are prone to side cramping while exercising, maybe these tips above will help you relieve some of the pain symptoms. If you’re ready to step your fitness game up, keep reading to see how CrossFit Invoke can help you make gains.
Where’s the Best Gym in Raleigh NC? CrossFit Invoke!
If you’re looking for top fitness training in Raleigh, call CrossFit Invoke today. We have top-rated personal trainers to help customize your workouts so you’re maximizing gains. Invoke will get you laser focused in on your health goals so you can smash them with confidence. We even offer free classes so you can try us out before you commit to a membership.
We’re the best gym in Raleigh NC and we’re committed to YOU and your health. So call us today to get started with your free class.
