Sports

What Is Runner’s High

Andrew Parker
Sep 17, 2022

You don’t have to be a passionate runner or even a consistent runner to have heard about a runner’s high. Now this phrase gets thrown around a lot by people who genuinely enjoy running. As someone who may be starting out, you are probably curious about what a runner’s high is and well what it’s all about. Don’t worry or be shy, you aren’t the only person who has been wondering what a runner’s high is. That’s why you are here. We know that there are people such as yourself who would like to understand this phrase. That’s why we have everything you need to know about a runner’s high right here.

Smiling young woman jogging near lake on sunny day

Getty Images / DigitalVision / The Good Brigade

When you first hear someone talking about a runner’s high, you might instantly think that they are taking supplements while working out. But you couldn’t be more wrong. You see, runner’s high is simply a phrase used to explain the feeling someone gets from pushing themselves beyond the power they thought they had. Yes, it really is just that simple. Now there is a bit of science that goes into a runner’s high. When working or well running, your body feels tired and even sore which is when you will usually take a break to catch your breath. However, if you decide to push through and continue on you are likely to experience a runner’s high.

This is because your brain released a chemical called endorphins. Once your brain released your endorphins you are no longer focused on the pain you were experiencing. Instead, the running or whatever workout you were doing feels pleasurable. That’s right, pleasure really does come after pain if you are willing to push through. Now before you head off and start running so that you can experience a runner’s high, you should know that everyone has a different experience when it comes to a runner’s high. So don’t try to compare yours to someone else. With that said, enjoy your workout!