Exercise-induced Cramps
Exercising is probably the most common cause of muscle cramps. Exercising hard cause small rips in the muscles. When the muscles are being worked too hard, they can respond by cramping up. Cramps are also caused by hyperflexion--bending a joint beyond where it is supposed to bend. This can cause the muscles to contract protectively, resulting in pain and stiffness. Dehydration and lactic acid buildup also contribute to exercise-induced muscle cramps. Basically, anything that works your body really hard can cause cramps.
Other Causes of Cramps
Lack of oxygen can cause muscles to cramp up. People with poor circulation due to arteriosclerosis often get muscle cramps in their legs--especially when exercising. Low levels of certain minerals, such as salt or calcium, can also lead to muscle cramps. Rapid changes in temperature can also lead to muscle cramping--especially when the temperature cools quickly. Finally, muscle cramps can be caused by some serious illnesses, such as thyroid disease, kidney disease and multiple sclerosis.
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