Cold water and muscle cramps

So we had an article in a past magazine that was titled Stopping leg cramps while tubing. I recently posted on Social Media a copy of the article on our Blog [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]
There was a large discussion that came from it, and an interesting question was raised, Does cold water increase the chance of cramping. So I searched and found that the answer is yes. Muscle cramps come from Fatigue, dehydration, and electrolyte depletion. I think we can all see for the most part we can control these factors. But how does the cold affect the area of increased likely hood of cramping? If your waders are not keeping you warm the cold will suck the warmth you do have out of your body. This will increase the bodies natural reaction to shiver. Shivering is normal and is a way in which your body can build heat to offset what is being lost. While this can generate heat it also increases fatigue and increases the chance of cramping.
So the answer is this yes cold water will increase the chance of you developing cramps while tubing. The good news is if we stay hydrated and replace those missing electrolytes, and try to not push ourselves too hard (To the point of FATIGUE) we can offset the chance of cramping. We are in control of cramping while tubing we just have to know our limits and take care of our bodies right. Hope this helps you on the water, tight lines everyone be safe out there.

Thanks Jeff for all the Help litefoot

Good info Jeff.
I have been lucky enough to not cramp up on the water. I have had cramping in the evening after a day of heavy kicking though.

That is interesting maybe low on electrolyte at later in the day. It was interesting to read that they truly don't have an idea as to why cramps happen but they now the contributing factors that lead to them. Going to have to keep looking to see if we can find an answer for late day cramps.

Great information Jeff!

On the flip side of the coin ...

Myself and singletrack fished an entire season wearing just board shorts with zero cramps between us ... and this is still my preferred way to fish today.
Just my added 2-cents,

FYI ... Hypothermia can actually begin at 91 deg with some individuals, so learn your limits, stay comfortable and safe everyone.

Tight-lines,

SP Dan     <"))><

True I think this has a lot to do with our state of Hydration. If we are well hydrated and generally health the cold will not cause us as much issue. If we dehydrated even a little that will increase our chances of cramping up. So I think we can say Singletrack and yourself are pretty health guys

Yup! We are.

SP Dan <"))><

My problem is finding the balance between staying hydrated and not peeing in my waders!

Some things I do prior to going out (from my days as a bodyboarder): eat a banana, or avocado with himalayan pink salt - loads you up with electrolytes

Himalayan pink salt he if it work why fix it right.