What is a runner's high?

Sustained aerobic exercise, whether it’s running, biking, or even Zumba-ing, can cause a release of brain chemicals called endorphins in the emotion- and mood-controlling regions of your brain.  Endorphins are your body’s natural form of opium (no kidding!).  They make you feel really happy and feel less pain.  So lace up those running shoes or clip on your cycling shoes, work up a sweat, and feel the flood of happiness and even euphoria of the runner’s high—yes some do describe it as orgasmic.

"Runner’s high" refers to a state of euphoria experienced by many after prolonged bouts of exercise. Long considered to be the result of increased release of endorphins – chemicals the body makes with a similar action to pain-relieving morphine – recent research has uncovered that another potential cause of the runner’s high is a system of receptors located in the brain and other parts of the body that react to molecules like those found in certain recreational and medicinal “feel-good drugs.” These molecules set off a chain of reactions that reduce pain and anxiety and create a sense of well-being. Interestingly, what researchers have discovered is that with the right stimulus – such as exercise – the body can produce these pain and anxiety-relieving molecules on its own. Regardless of what causes it, enjoy runner’s high for what it is – that great sense of satisfaction and feeling of accomplishment when you complete a good workout.