Training & Nutrition - Calf Cramps

Hello,
I am fairly new at this after a 8 year layoff, and have a question. When I extend myself by riding harder or more miles, my calves start feeling like they want to cramp, particularly my right one. If I allowed my feet to point toes down, I am sure they would cramp.

The question is: is this normal? Or is it caused by technique, fit, conditioning, etc.?

I am riding 3-4 days/week from 10-15 miles each outing. I think my routes are uphill both ways, because I only average mid 13's for speed and any hill slows me way down since I am 6'2" 228lbs of NOT solid muscle!

Thanks

Seturner,

I get the samething but in my left calf. It maybe due to not enough hydration or low Potassium. Are you drinking while biking? If so, you may not be drinking enough. Try increasing your intake. I drink plain water.

Also, try having a banana it is rich in Potassium and should help. When I feel a cramp coming on I will generally have a banana in addition to the one I have each day and drink at least 8 ounces of water. I find it helps.

Yeah I get cramps in the calves too sometimes.

http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=61682

Thanks Guys. I will try these suggestions. :)

Also if you are low on salt you can't hold the water you need to. Make sure you're drinks have sodium.

Cheers