Getting High...naturally.

"A publicized effect of endorphin production is the so-called "runner's high", which is said to occur when strenuous exercise takes a person over a threshold that activates endorphin production. Endorphins are released during long, continuous workouts, when the level of intensity is between moderate and high, and breathing is difficult. This also corresponds with the time that muscles use up their stored glycogen. During a release of endorphins the person may be exposed to bodily harm from strenuous bodily functions after going past his or her body's physical limit. This means that runners can keep running despite pain, continuously surpassing what they once considered to be their limit." - wikipedia 'Endorphin Definition'

I have a trainer friend who told me he hates working out. There is nothing about it he really enjoys, with the exception of the results he earns. His theory is that if you enjoy your workouts, you aren't pushing hard enough.

I couldn't disagree more.

Some of my most 'enjoyable' workouts, runs or yoga classes have pushed me beyond my limits. Sure I might be grimacing at the burning sensation creeping through my body or gasping for air as I finish the marathon with a mile left to go but its in those times where I can smile and say "Yeah! Look at me go!". For some reason thereafter, I will push even harder than before.

Have you ever experienced a workout where suddenly you feel great and you run faster, lift heavier and perform with all your heart and energy? Its your endorphins and adrenlaline at work which promote strong physical gains while still keeping a smile on your face.

If you hate the activity at hand, its not you, its the activity. Solution: try something else you actually enjoy! Be excited about fitness and find a way to make a less enjoyable activity more energizing. Group classes, challenges, goal setting, music, friends, videos, team sports or a personal trainer are all tools anyone can use to spice up and amp up any workout that has become a struggle.

Sarah Willet of Lehigh University explains and questions the athelete's high during sport in the article below, and I'd encourage you to read about it.

Try it today - find a way and experience you own natural high.

Yours in health,
Jenna
Article: http://www.lehigh.edu/~dmd1/sarah.html