What should lifeguards encourage a swimmer with a cramp to do?

Encouraging a swimmer with a cramp to stretch the cramped muscle is crucial for alleviating discomfort and restoring mobility. Stretching helps to relieve tension in the muscle and can facilitate blood flow, which assists in easing the cramp. It's important for the swimmer to gently stretch the affected muscle, focusing on creating a relaxed environment during the process.

While stopping swimming immediately can be a reaction to a cramp, it doesn't provide any immediate relief to the muscle itself. Taking deep breaths may help the swimmer remain calm, but it doesn't directly address the cramping issue. Holding onto the pool's edge can provide support but doesn't assist in relieving the muscle cramp. Therefore, encouraging stretching is the most effective approach for addressing cramps and helping the swimmer feel more comfortable.