We’ve all heard about the “runner’s high” and the mood boost that comes after a good workout. But what is it about exercise that makes us feel so good? The answer lies in the connection between physical activity and our brain chemistry, particularly the release of endorphins. Ahead, learn about the science behind exercise-induced happiness, explaining how exercise triggers these feel-good chemicals and the impressive mental health benefits of adding regular physical activity to your daily routine.
RELATED: New Research Shows Just How Powerful Exercise is For Mental Health
The Endorphin Effect
Endorphins are neurotransmitters, substances that pass along signals from one neuron to another. They play a key role in the body’s reward system and are often referred to as natural painkillers because of their ability to relieve pain and stress. When you exercise, your body increases endorphin production, leading to a range of positive emotions, from elevated mood to reduced stress and anxiety.
How Exercise Triggers Endorphin Release
Physical Exertion
Endorphins are released in response to the physical stress of exercise. This is the body’s way of minimizing discomfort and maximizing performance. Research shows that the more you exercise, the more endorphins your body will produce.
Intensity Matters
Studies suggest that more intense workouts, like high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or vigorous aerobic exercise, are particularly effective at increasing endorphin levels. Browse the FitOn HIIT category for unlimited free HIIT workouts to add to your fitness routine. Other forms of exercise that can help with endorphin release include power walking, hiking, and dancing.
Psychological Factors
The satisfaction of meeting physical challenges and achieving goals can also play a role in endorphin release.
The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise Endorphins
Mood Enhancement
We all know that “runner’s high” feeling after a good workout, and that’s thanks to the endorphin release! Those post-workout endorphins can lead to an improved mood, creating feelings of happiness.
Stress Reduction
Research has found that regular exercise can help support emotional resilience against acute stress. Fitting regular physical activity into your daily routine, whether it’s a mid-day walk or a post-work workout, is a great habit to help manage daily stressors.
Anxiety and Depression Relief
Regular exercise has been found to have therapeutic effects on people suffering from anxiety and depression, partly due to endorphin release. Outside of the endorphin release, regular exercise has also been shown to help boost confidence, and provide a healthier way to cope with stressors.
Improved Sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential to supporting mental health, and regular physical activity can be one way to support better quality sleep. The calming effect of endorphins can help improve sleep quality, and research shows that exercise can help increase sleep duration and sleep quality.
Elevating Well-Being With Exercise
The link between exercise and happiness is well-supported by science. The release of endorphins and other beneficial biochemicals during physical activity can help elevate mood, reduce stress, and support mental well-being. As we continue to understand more about how exercise influences our brain chemistry, one thing is clear: incorporating regular physical activity into our routines is a key ingredient for a happier, healthier life.
