Runner’s high is the feeling of euphoria felt by runners (and indeed by many athletes) during or after vigorous exercise. For many years, however, sport scientists could not prove whether runner’s high really existed, or if it was simply people feeling good while exercising.
Rush of euphoria
Runner's high has been described as an intense rush of euphoria, often compared to the 'high' induced by some drugs. Some people just experience intense happiness or even cry. For others, though, runner's high belongs to the realm of myth. Yes, running might evoke a feeling of satisfaction, but perhaps the only intense feeling they experience is relief as they pass over the finish line.
Glossary
- Endorphins:
- Endorphins are chemicals produced by glands in the body. They can reduce pain and increase feelings of well-being and happiness.
Release of endorphins
Sport scientists have worked for years to shed light on this phenomenon, hoping to find a biochemical explanation for the anecdotal runner's high. It had been suspected that body exercise could prompt the release of endorphins, which could explain the mood changes described by athletes.
However, researchers faced a hurdle in methodology. Until recently the only way to test if endorphins were present in the brain was by a spinal tap. This method made it simply impossible to test athletes before and after exercise.
The verdict
In 2008 a research team from Germany published a paper in the journal Cerebral Cortex, reporting that they had found an accurate method for measuring endorphins before and after exercise. In the experiment, twelve athletes were scanned and the level of endorphins in their brains measured. Then they completed a two hour run, and were scanned again afterwards. The findings showed that "the level of endorphins was significantly increased after running".
Finally, the debate can be laid to rest: runner’s high is fact, not fiction.
Comments
Matt:
I find that running helps with my depression. I can focus on one thing and escape from everything for a while. I do get a rush shortly afterwards and it feels amazing. It's the one time I feel truly relaxed.
Sep. 04, 2011
Khaled Fawaz:
Its the best feeling a human can feel & yes it can never be explained or written down as it definitely differs from one person to the other. All I know is that I never feel more alive or more happy like I do when I finish a run or even when I'm running. Its the best feeling in the world thats all I can say...
Sep. 14, 2010
Adi:
it is true , so i am not crazy , it feels like a small earthquake inside your body,... vibrating, cool
May. 15, 2010
Wendy:
I'm new to running and when I got to 7km of my first 10 km run I ran with a smile on my face and an amazing feeling of excitement and euphoria.My body was literally tingling and so I definitely believe in runner's high.I love it!!!!
Apr. 23, 2010
Janaka Prasanga:
i agree
Apr. 15, 2010
James R:
I think it is ridiculous for anyone to even begin to conceptualize the runner's high; especially in such small terms. The TRUE runner's high cannot be explained by numbers or words, it can only ever be experienced. A true runner's high changes a life it is not simply a good time or drug-like euphoria. These scientific findings are a mere consequence of something special beyond human explanantion.
Feb. 02, 2010
m driscoll:
agreed,it does give you a high and a sense of euphoria, also as said in last post ,its a damn sight healthier and cheaper than drugs or drink.
Sep. 01, 2009
Diego:
Hmmm, dubious to say the least. It's not hard to understand why a running shoe manufacturer would want to perpetuate this phenomenon. I have run several marathons and have never experienced anything other than an immense feeling of satisfaction but that is purely subjective. The current scientific thiking is that although the body releases endorphins they do not pass in to the brain. Unfortunately this post does not permit links but research for yourself and you will find the truth.
Jun. 13, 2009
Rich T:
Yes, I'm glad to see what I've known to be true for years is proven. I've tried various ways of increasing Endorphins over the years and running is definatly the cheapest and least toxic!
Feb. 06, 2009