What does the science say about the so-called "runner's high" that some people say they experience during vigorous exercise?
Exercisers often report feeling like they are "running on a cloud" during and following a challenging endurance workout. This feeling is often referred to as a "runner's high" and has been the subject of scientific study and debate. As our understanding of the phenomenon emerges, researchers are attributing the euphoria to two different biological reactions.
• During vigorous exercise, endorphins are released from the pituitary gland in the brain as a response to physical discomfort. Endorphins can create feelings of euphoria and natural well-being. Higher levels of endorphins often result from aerobic endurance activities and may remain elevated for as long as 30 to 60 minutes after exercise. Endorphins also act as painkillers.
• As a response to prolonged stress, the brain also releases endocannabinoids—a natural biological version and dose similar to the effects of marijuana. While endorphins are created only by specialized neurons, endocannabinoids can be created by any body cell, and are believed to induce a feeling of calmness.
You might also like to view...
What is muscular endurance?
A) the amount of time required to contract a muscle completely B) the ability to resist fatigue and to sustain muscular tension over time C) the ability to move the joints through a full range of motion D) the amount of force a muscle can produce with a single maximum effort
According to the FICK equation, which of these determine maximal oxygen uptake?
A. Resting heart rate B. Arterial-venous oxygen difference C. Resting blood pressure D. Each of these things factor into the determination of the maximal oxygen uptake according to the FICK equation.
Which instrument is used to measure breathing activity or lung volumes?
A) bronchoscope B) oximeter C) ventilator D) spirometer
NK cells: __________
Fill in the blank(s) with correct word