You just got done your long run and feel like you can conquer the world or do the run all over again. Maybe you should do another cardio workout now? Maybe a full strength training session? Why not, you are unstoppable! This is the typical feeling people get and call the Runner’s High.
It can actually happen to almost anyone. However, the myth is that you get your runner’s high from endorphins. Thanks to scientific research, this has been proven mostly false. Endorphins can occur during an activity, put will act more like pain killers on your muscles, but not have an impact on your brain. I like comparing endorphins activating during your run to when are feeling tired and exhausted, but all of the sudden that feeling just vanishes and you can keep going. There is a lot more to a runner’s high though. The mental part is the main part.
So, what causes a runner’s high? Honestly, the jury is still out, but from a lot of recent studies, the latest theory says Anandamides. To be completely non-scientific, this is a drug-like chemical (it’s actually a fatty acid neurotransmitter) your body creates that has a very short shelf-life. It commonly occurs from long endurance activities in which you are supporting your body weight. To put it simply, it’s something in your body that can make you feel a sense of joy and happiness. This is why runner’s seem to experience it more than any other athlete. If you really care about the science and medical aspects, check out some government and medical sites to get more info…fun reads.
Under the right circumstance, I have experienced the same feeling from cycling and swimming. These were in rather extreme (for me) circumstances, mostly during Ironman training. However, I have never gotten this feeling from long indoor trainer or spin sessions. Despite that, there are countless indoor runs I have experienced this.
For me, there are definite trends on when I will get a runner’s high. After running most of my life, I have never gotten a high from any running distance under 10 miles. Many articles say 10k or more, but that has never happened for me. I have noticed that my level of effort also plays a role. If I am doing a long run at an “easy” effort, I have never gotten a high. When I have been marathon training and done tempo runs over 10 miles, for example, I get the high every time. I also cannot think of a single half marathon or marathon I haven’t had the high.
Many people think they can bring on a runner’s high just by thinking about it. I fell for this one when I was young. I would think about running or racing and the pure excitement made me think I was having a runner’s high. It was just excitement. You cannot get a runner’s high this way.
If you crave that high, then be prepared for moderate effort longer distance running. More importantly, be prepared to not get it. I don’t know anyone who gets a runner’s high all of the time, even when they try for it. I also don’t recommend running just for the sake of getting a runner’s high. Personally, I just love running and will enjoy the occasional reward. Good luck and have fun!
A techie's fitness life 