Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition 3307: Why Do Muscle Cramps Happen? by Kate Galliett of Fit for Real Life on Improving Muscle Function
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Feb 26, 2026 They explore why muscle cramps often come from nervous system miscommunication rather than electrolytes. The conversation covers how unfamiliar positions and shortened muscles trigger cramps. Practical strategies for re-educating the nervous system through movement exploration and gentle stretching are highlighted. The mental side of handling cramps, including breathing and acceptance, is also discussed.
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Cramps Are Nervous System Confusion
- Muscle cramps often stem from nervous system miscommunication rather than just electrolyte loss.
- Kate Galliott explains cramps occur when the brain sends excessive input because it hasn't learned to fire a muscle in that shortened position.
Drills Cause Early Cramps Then Fade With Practice
- Kate notes many drills induce cramps initially but stop after repeated practice as the nervous system learns.
- She and clients have repeatedly experienced cramps that fade with familiarity and targeted training.
Train End Ranges To Prevent Cramps
- Teach your nervous system by repeatedly exposing tissues to their end ranges and practicing control in those positions.
- Explore full joint ranges, then increase capacity and complexity with repeated, frequent practice rather than passive stretching.