chrisdaniel.net

I’m 22, and I’ve heard all the normal rhetoric about exercising — not least among the advice, the daily run. You have probably heard exactly the same; but did you know running can be addictive?

[Running-addicts seen in their natural environment — marathon photo courtesy Steve Gregory; marijuana photo courtesy US government]

Last night at the coffee shop, a less-fit friend was experiencing a mild euphoric high after a long, fast walk involving a bit of climbing; another friend mentioned that it might be similar to the “runner’s high“. He added that “everyone runs to get it — otherwise only masochists would run”. Incredulous, I asked the barista, who runs regularly, why she ran. “For that feeling you get sometimes … it’s like having sex — except you’re running!” She also mentioned that sometimes her “head feels one with the sky”. Sounds similar to what is described by this trail runner.

Why hadn’t I heard this before? Maybe mine is an aberrant experience, but if not, maybe it’s because of the “anti-drug” societal pressure here in the United States, thanks to the “War on Drugs”. Anything using the prospect of addictive highs to promote even beneficial behaviour might be seen as encouraging “deviancy”. What a crock of shit. Well, now that I’ve heard about this runner’s high, I think I’ll follow through on my intention to start running regularly — yes, for the high, dammit!