Achieving the Runner’s High

The runner's high—a sanctuary for mental well-being, a realm where thoughts flow freely. But what exactly is it, and how do we find it?

Firstly, the runner's high is unique to each individual. It transcends pace, company, and time of day. It's about discovering what works best for you, where you find your stride, your rhythm and ultimately your moment of clarity.

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What is a Runner’s High?

It's a state of pure joy, where running becomes the sole focus of existence. It's about being present in the moment, experiencing a euphoria that blocks out everything else. It's running in its purest form—a symphony of motion and consciousness.

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What causes a Runner’s High?

There are two secret ingredients needed to create a runner’s high – endorphins and endocannabinoids. Runners have credited these naturally-produced chemicals as the source of a runner’s high for decades, though it was only confirmed by research back in 2008.

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How to achieve a Runner’s High?

For me, it's about running stress-free, at a comfortable pace, on a well-rested body. Interestingly the research tells us to be in zone 3, but it is unique for everyone. The intensity allows my mind to undergo a remarkable automatic organisation process, akin to tidying up a cluttered desk of thoughts.

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Related: Don't Fear Running

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It's a profoundly transformative experience, where I almost forget I'm running, and a smile spreads across my face from ear to ear.

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3 Factors of a Runner’s High

#1 – Find the right intensity

First up, you need to find the right tempo for your run. Aim to run at a high – but not too high – intensity. Around 80% of your maximum heart rate is optimal.

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#2 – Go for longer runs

At the absolute minimum you’ll need to run for 30 minutes, though leading research suggests the sweet spot for hitting a runner’s high is between 1 and 2 hours.

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#3 – Get enough sleep

Getting 8 hours of sleep is optimal for endocannabinoid production.

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Final thoughts

The runner's high isn't something you can summon at will. It's a gift—a fleeting moment of bliss that you wish you could share with others. When it graces you, embrace it fully, and endeavour to seek it out in your own unique way.

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The runner's high isn't just about physical exertion; it's a journey inward – a quest for mental clarity.

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Fun  - Honesty - Simplicity - Smash Life - MENTAL TOUGHNESS - Hard Work