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Chasing The Runner’s High: Exercise and Endorphins
Health | November 07, 2014
Often after an intense workout some of us feel a sudden sense of joy, a rush that’s hard to explain to people who don’t regularly exercise. Our blood is pumping, we’re breathing hard, but we can’t help but smile. All seems right with the world. This is what many loosely call a ‘runner’s high’ and why many people become obsessed with running and working out. At the end of the day, it just feels good. Why? Our bodies release endorphins after long or intense exercise. Endorphins, according to David Linden, a neuroscientist at John Hopkins University, are neurotransmitters that have similar qualities to morphine. In fact, the word, ‘endorphin’ means ‘endogenous morphine.’ These natural occurring chemicals in our body create a sense of pleasure as well as relieve pain. They also help counteract the effects of depression by boosting our moods.
While this is great news, especially for people who are struggling with working out consistently, it’s important to remember that the goal of fitness is a lasting sense of wellbeing, both physically and mentally, not a quick fix. Unfortunately, some people chase the high, pushing their bodies over and over again in an attempt to flood their bodies with endorphins, often having a negative impact on their overall sense of wellbeing.
Chasing the rush or high from exercise can be shortsighted and, ironically enough, unhealthy. For example, a recent New York Times article discussed how some competitive runners often experience a dip in their moods, even depression, if unable to run due to injury or illness. Many will continue to run even with injuries that demand rest. Remember fitness is marathon not a sprint. Don’t rush the harvest for a shortsighted goal. Instead, try to focus on the big picture of overall wellbeing. Remember the tortoise and the hare: Slow and steady wins the race. I believe in daily exercise, but there’s really no need to workout for hours at a time. As long as you’ll stay consistent, you can be in the best shape of your life just by doing my short, yet effective workouts.
Private Member |
As a runner, I do know what it is this sudden sense of joy thanks to endorphins, and also I do know that dip in the mood when I’ve been unable to run, running with the flu and all type of injuries, trying to get my “dose of happiness” which I became addicted, I can’t agree more with you.
I’ve been following you for years, and, fortunately, I found the balance between my passion for running and my strength workouts, and thanks to YOU, Zuzka, I also discovered power yoga, the perfect end for all my routines. Thank you so much!
Private Member |
Thank you so much Z, this is exactly what I needed to read I for sure have been addicted to working out and have felt guilty for not putting in a 90min workout! well not anymore 🙂 love your philosophy and I am going to get myself on track in a more positive healthy way, your a shiny star! Thanx 🙂 xx
Private Member |
lake tahoe, nv, usa
haha thank you, I hope you’ll enjoy my workouts!
Private Member |
Great article Zuzka, I am guilty of running while injured because I get so down when I am sidelined:( I am learning now at 42 to slow down and listen to my body.
Private Member |
I love and look forward to all the information that you have here. Thanks for all your hard work!!!!
Private Member |
czech republic
Well I am addicted to working out, but in a good way. I know less is more than too much. You taught me 🙂 Anyway, the first paragraph is so true – I have a 1 year old daughter with my boyfriend and he told me that he would take care of our girl and I can go out, go shopping or wherever I want. He did not understand I chose to stay at home and exercise with you 😀 So he was with our girl and I closed myself “with you” in a room and was trying to survive and when I finished, I was soaked in sweat, smiling like I was on drugs and walking around the flat with that powerful feeling I did something great for myself. I was sooo proud! It was much better than going shopping I have to say 😀
Private Member |
What do you think about pre-workouts supplements. I use these to get me going early in the morning….
Private Member |
When I occasionally mildly injure myself, my initial reaction is: No!!! This better not make me have to take a day off from working out! It’s hard for me to take a day off. I just don’t feel as good. I feel gross. I don’t have a very active day because I have a desk job and am not really into outdoor activities, so I NEED a ZGYM workout. 🙂 I hope it’s not to the point to where I’m being unhealthy.