“Exercise has a dramatic antidepressive effect,” says Linden. Exercise may also produce new brain cells in certain locations through a process called neurogenesis, which may lead to an overall improvement in brain performance and prevent cognitive decline. The mental benefits don’t stop when you finish your run - regular cardiovascular exercise can spark growth of new blood vessels to nourish the brain. Unlike endorphins, endocannabinoids can move easily through the cellular barrier separating the bloodstream from the brain, where these mood-improving neuromodulators promote short-term psychoactive effects such as reduced anxiety and feelings of calm. That relaxed post-run feeling may instead be due to endocannabinoids - biochemical substances similar to cannabis but naturally produced by the body.Įxercise increases the levels of endocannabinoids in the bloodstream, Linden explains. Research shows that endorphins do not pass the blood-brain barrier. “Indeed, many distance runners feel merely drained or even nauseated at the end of a long race, not blissful,” says Linden.Īnd though endorphins help prevent muscles from feeling pain, it is unlikely that endorphins in the blood contribute to a euphoric feeling, or any mood change at all. Surveys have revealed runner’s high to be rather rare, however, with a majority of athletes never experiencing it.
Popular culture identifies these as the chemicals behind “runner’s high,” a short-lasting, deeply euphoric state following intense exercise. When you start out on your run, your body goes through a transition: Your breathing may become heavy, and you might notice your pulse quicken as the heart pumps harder to move oxygenated blood to your muscles and brain.Īs you hit your stride, your body releases hormones called endorphins.
What Happens to Your Body - and Brain - During a Run
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