sodium or the acetic acid that help relieve the cramp. But that's wrong. Instead, researchers theorize that ingesting these substances stimulates a reflex that originates in the region behind the oropharynx. This reflex inhibits the neurons that are causing the cramping muscles to contract and so the cramp releases. Now this isn't a proven theory but these researchers are definitely at a higher IQ grade than I am. Until someone comes up with a better explanation I'll go with it. The main point is that it isn't some nutritional component in the substance that causes the cramp to stop. This is pure speculation on my part but maybe there are other bitter tasting substances which could induce the same reaction by stimulation of the cramp inhibiting reflex. I can't see myself carrying around a bottle of pickle juice but maybe I'll pack some mustard packets for my next long race. 4. Hyperventilate One simple and easy method you can try to relieve a cramp is to take quick, deep breathes at a rate of 20 to 30 per minute. I have to caution this was a case study paper with only three subjects and they were testing this on exercise-related cramps that occurred several hours after exercise while sleeping. However one of the subjects did try this method at mile 67 of a 100-mile mountain bike ride and the cramps resolved within three minutes and didn't come back for the rest of the race. If you are doing this out