Author – Vedika Jogani
A recent graduate from Ithaca College with a Master’s degree in Sports and Exercise Science, specializing in Mental Performance, Vedika Jogani is OMP’s Product and Content Manager.
This blog is a summary from Chapter 6 of the book titled, “Contributions to the Practice of Running” written by Dr. Andrea Stamatis.
Have you ever felt an incredible surge of alertness, joy, mental clarity, and emotional uplift—especially while running?
This powerful feeling, often described as a “runner’s high,” has captured the attention of athletes and scientists alike.
But what exactly is runner’s high, and what’s the science behind it?
Runner’s high isn’t just a myth or a casual term to describe feeling good after a workout.
In fact, researchers Sachs (1984) and Berger (1996) defined this experience as a euphoric sensation characterized by a deep sense of well-being, heightened awareness of your surroundings, mental clarity, and even a spiritual connection.
People who experience it often describe feeling a profound appreciation for nature, a sense of timelessness, and even out-of-body experiences.
The question is: why does this happen, and how can you set yourself up to experience it?
Research suggests that certain conditions make runner’s high more likely to occur.
Running for about 30 minutes at a steady pace, especially over longer distances, is key.
Additionally, fewer distractions, favorable weather conditions, and a calm, rhythmic environment all contribute to setting the stage for this remarkable state of mind.
But what’s really going on inside the body and brain during runner’s high?
Several theories rooted in the mind-body connection try to explain this elusive phenomenon:
- Brain Hemisphere Dominance: Some researchers believe that dominance of the right hemisphere of the brain may be a factor. This side of the brain is associated with creativity, intuition, and holistic thinking—qualities that align with the heightened sensory awareness and emotional elevation people often report during runner’s high.
- Endorphins and Endocannabinoids: Perhaps the most well-known explanation for runner’s high involves the release of endorphins and endocannabinoids—natural chemicals in the brain that act as painkillers. These compounds help to reduce discomfort and pain, while also producing a sense of euphoria.
- Flow State Theory: This theory suggests that runner’s high is related to the psychological concept of “flow”—a state of complete immersion and focus in an activity. When you’re in flow, you lose track of time, and your mind and body function effortlessly in sync. For runners, this may explain the deep sense of mental clarity and the positive emotions that accompany the high.
Runner’s high represents a perfect blend of mind and body in motion.
It’s more than just a physical experience—it’s a mental and emotional state where discomfort and pain seem to disappear, replaced by feelings of peace, joy, and even transcendence.
While not everyone experiences runner’s high every time, they lace up their shoes, the right combination of distance, pace, and mental focus can open the door to this exhilarating state.
So, next time you head out for a run, keep an eye out for that perfect moment when everything clicks—because you might just find yourself chasing that high.
