How do you avoid stomach cramping/side stitches during running?

Question

My 10 y/o DD is trying to run 3/4 of a mile to a mile every day except she starts getting stomach cramps and side stitches almost every time (they do go away after she slows down to a walk). She tries to avoid eating anything shortly before running and she drinks plenty of fluids. We don't know what else to do to avoid these cramps.

I was hoping some of you will have some ideas.

Answer 1

Believe it or not I had the same exact problem.  Then I started eating before running... an apple maybe and a small bowl of oatmeal.

Problem solved.  My body was screaming for energy.  It absolutely worked for me.

Answer 2

stretch a lot before running and don't drunk too too mcuh water, but even to keep her hydrated!

Answer 3

It is sometimes cause by improper breathing technique, gasping for air.

I have 2 weblogs with information that you might find helpful

http://www.caryraffle.com

http://www.exercisenono.com

Answer 4

I used to get these, and the whole reason that they occur is because the body isn't getting enough oxygen. Make sure that she controls her breathing and is conscious about it the whole time she runs; if you forget about your breathing you will get a sidecramp. That's why when she walks it goes away-less physical demand, same amount of oxygen.