This year, scientists believe they pinpointed exactly what happens in your body when the “runner’s high” is in effect. This study, according to Science Daily, reveals that the cause of “runner’s high” is because of the fat cell-derived hormone, leptin.
Leptin’s job is to send signals to the brain of whether or not the body has enough fuel/energy. According to the senior study author Stephanie Fulton, falling leptin levels “send a hunger signal to the brain’s pleasure center to generate the rewarding effects of running. Based on these findings, we think that a fall in leptin levels increases motivation for physical activity as a means to enhance exploration and the pursuit of food. Our study also suggests that people with lower fat-adjusted leptin levels, such as high-performance marathon runners, could potentially be more susceptible to the rewarding effects of running and thus possibly more inclined to exercise.”
David A. Raichlen, Ph.D, a professor of anthropology at University of Arizona has a similar theory, on the biological level, about why humans have the potential for “runner’s high.” Speaking on a separate study, he revealed, “Years ago, our ancestors’ survival likely depended on chasing down food. The desire to live was possibly their motivation to run and run fast, and the feel-good brain chemicals released when they did so may have helped them achieve the speed and distances required. The runner’s high may have served [and serves today] as a natural painkiller, masking tired legs and blistered feet.
“Runner’s high” does not just pertain to running. It can be activated in any physical activity that requires strenuous exercise. Running just may be the easiest way to achieve this.
So, according to not only athletes everywhere, but also science now, “runner’s high” is a real thing. So, if you are able to run, I strongly encourage you to do so on a consistent basis. You will not only look good but feel good as well!
Sadly, while running on the street (many people run along the lakefront here in Chicago) provides great scenery, running on concrete/roads can damage your knees overtime. This is why tracks are made of polyurethane (to cushion impact on knees). Treadmills are another option.
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