Why do I keep getting cramp?

[mckabu]

Hi, I am a 23 year old semi pro soccer player. For the passed 3-4 years I have regularly suffered from cramp during football matches around the 70 minute mark. I have read into the four main reasons that cause cramp and made sure that I did everything possible to prevent this happening. I always make sure I am well hydrated, I take magnesium suppliments daily, I always keep up a good level of fitness therefore fatigue shouldn't be an issue. I would understand it if I cramped up when my body felt extremely fatigued, but the strange thing about it is that i feel fine within myself and suddenly the cramp just hits and it ruins my performance and holds me back. It is very frustrating as it restricts my involvement in games at crucial stages. Does anyone have any idea what could be causing this cramp? Any advice would be much appreciated as I am willing to try anything to stop this happening.

[Heidi]

Hi
Do you generally have tight muscles? If your range of motion is restricted then I would work on improving this through stretching and sports massage to see if it helps.
Other things to consider are a heat retaining support (neoprene is the best material) to keep the muscles warm and flexible.
Hope that helps.

[mckabu]

Hi, Generally my muscles are ok, I tend to do quite alot of stretching and my range of movement is pretty good. My lower back and hamstrings are usually the areas which I suffer stiffness. Thanks for your post.