The Dreaded Cramp - Advice please

[Student Bob]

The function of an energy drink isn't just to prevent cramping.

Aye, but the context of this thread, and my comment, was the influence of energy gunk on cramping. For me, as a distance runner, I like a nice vanilla powergel at around 20 miles, although that's mostly just to break the monotony for half a mile rather than to prevent cramping....

Using your argument however, I guess the irony of energy jism is that if it facilitates exercising at an intensity beyond what you're naturally capable of sustaining, then you're making a statistically significant increase in your risk of cramp. Or, to stretch the point... if you ride too fast, you're gonna spill your G&T. Then it's ride over whilst you assume a foetal position with a death grip around your calf....

 

[Groundoggy]

Thing is, though, you seem to be conflating energy issues with cramping.

Now I'd accept a few factors probably influence people getting cramp whilst exercising - but it's not just running out of easily available "energy" to do so.

I've nothing really against energy drinks, per se, be they expensive or otherwise - but the one thing they're not, is essential - they're merely convenient.

Not really equating energy and cramping - at least that wasn't my intent. The video was only one illustration of why sodium, potassium and other electrolytes are so important to the body. It's more than just replacing sodium lost thru sweat.