|
Hi,
If you've ever had your calf seize mid run, or your hamstring lock during a ride, you know exactly why I'm obsessed with finding the perfect cramp solution.
I've been getting destroyed by cramps more and more lately. Maybe it's age, maybe it's pushing harder in training, but cramps have become my nemesis. Running, riding, and especially during intense strength / Hyrox workouts - they hit when you least expect them and destroy me.
So I've been testing everything. Pickle juice shots, salt tabs, mustard packets (yeah, that's a thing, but doesn't work). I have been happy with SuckerPunch, a spicier pickle juice, then I discovered something from Australia that's changed my whole approach.
FIXX Nutrition CrampFix uses vinegar instead of pickle juice. Sounds like a small difference, but for me it's been night and day.
The science is similar - it works through sensory receptors in your mouth to calm those misfiring nerves that cause the cramping. Works in about 1 to 2 minutes for most people.
I have found the vinegar approach is both more enjoyable, but also more extreme in that it works better when the cramping is actually happening. Plus the packaging is genius - a gel packet, not a bulky shot bottle. I can stuff one in my pocket without it bouncing around.
My new protocol: Take one at the start of any endurance workout over 45 minutes or indoor interval/strength workouts - basically any workout where I have a higher risk of cramping. Then I keep a second one in my pocket as insurance. Haven't needed that backup one yet since I started taking it preventively.
For Hyrox specifically - the combo of running, indoor heat, and those brutal sled pushes is basically a cramp factory. The number one question I got from athletes at Hyrox events was how to stop cramping. I take one right before we start and keep another in my shorts pocket. Saved my race twice now.
Fair warning - it tastes sharp. Like really sharp. But when your quad is about to explode at the finish line, you won't care about taste.
If cramping is ruining your training or races, grab a few packets of FIXX and test it out. I created a variety pack so you can try out the different flavors. I personally like the lemon and raspberry the best.
- Matt
Founder
The Feed.
P.S. FIXX Nutrition has a whole line of sports nutrition we now have available for you exclusively at The Feed. You can get the CrampFix, Gel Pack, and their Hydration/Fuel drinks all in this Tryout Pack. Their flavors are fantastic.
|
