Why don't I get an endorphin rush from exercise?
Asked by vampiricelf on Feb 11, 2010
in Fitness
Why do some people get an endorphin rush after exercise, and others (ie, me...) not? For me, the only motivation to exercise is that it's good for my health. Other people love to exercise 'cause they get that buzz. Although I often feel virtuous afterwards as soon as I start to get my heart rate up - I feel exhausted (like sleepy, as opposed to worn out). How do I fix that? Or do I just have to deal?
Answer
You are not exercising long or hard enough to get an endorphin rush. Exercise causes endorphins, which create a sense of well-being, to be released from the brain. Endorphin release, called the “Runner’s High”, occurs during long continuous workouts when the level of intensity is between moderate and high and breathing is difficult. (Endorphin release also corresponds to the time when muscle glycogen is depleted.) To improve your stamina for long aerobic workouts, use a training schedule, build muscle with weight-training, eat appropriately before and after working out, and give it time.
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