Tips to avoid cramps?

[olivesyou]

I am running Broad Street this weekend (10 miler in Philly), and I am so nervous I am going to get a killer cramp (side stitch).  Does anyone have any tips other then hydrate and don't eat 2-3 hours before the race?

In training up for this race, a few of my runs have been interrupted by a really intense sharp pain just under my ribs on the right side.  I honestly felt like I had a hernia or something.  The only thing that helped was stop running and lean over (hand on knees).  I can keep it manageable by leaning forward during my run (hunch back), but I am sure that is not good overall.  

I have a goal for this race that I really want to hit, I am already worried that 4 or 5 miles in I will experience this pain and then suffer through the remaining 5-6 miles.  Ughhh what can I do?

[no0b]

That has happened to me before. Mainly it was due to incorrect breathing. Once I started focusing on my breathing I had a reduction in these instances. Also, this happened to me once when I over-hydrated (drinking too much and not focusing on breathing).

[sassystace]

When I've gotten them it was from being dehydrated or eating too close to when I ran.

Here are some tips from Runners World:
www.runnersworld.com/injury-prevention-recovery/how-to-beat-side-stitches
www.runnersworld.com/running-tips/four-ways-stop-dreaded-side-stitch

[Deleted]

Like others have said, when I get side stitches, it's from improper breathing. Sometimes on a run I can feel a stitch starting to develop. When that I happens, I try to slow my breathing and concentrate on deep, regular breaths.