Everyone knows that electrolyte replacement is essential for success in long, hot weather races. However, muscle cramps can happen at any time, and they usually happen when it seems to be the most inconvenient. That is why I always stash electrolytes in all of my packs, at all times of the year.
I keep them in my Camelbaks, running packs, backpacks, bike seat bags, first-aid kit, in the car, tied to my dog…you get the idea. My favorite electrolyte replacement is Nuun, but let’s face it, tying a tube of Nuun to a dog isn’t easy! It can also be kind of bulky and expensive to keep a full tube in all of those places, so I’ve come up with a backup plan.
If you’ve done many races then you’ve probably acquired, or at least seen, the Endurolyte sample packs from Hammer Nutrition. These packs are mostly weather-proof, lightweight, and hold four capsules. That is usually plenty to stop a cramp in an emergency and get you going again. I keep these sample packs everywhere for those emergency situations.
To speed up the recovery, I open two of the capsules and pour the powder directly onto my tongue. Then, 5-15 minutes later, I’ll swallow the remaining capsules normally. If you’re on the bike or don’t want to stop forward progress (that’s the spirit!) then just toss the capsules in your mouth and start chewing! Don’t forget to wash it all down with some iodine treated water…yum!
You can also chew Nuun tablets, just be aware that it takes some extra water, and that having a camera to catch the expression on your team-mate’s face is absolutely essential.
Avoiding cramps with a proper hydration strategy – individually proven during training, of course – is the best approach. But for little or no money, those sample packs can save you when the unexpected cramp attacks!
