Run: 60 minutes of long slow distance
Distance: 6.2 miles
Time: 60:10
Performance Stats (out of 5 ★)
Legs: ★ ★ ★ ★
Gut: ★ ★ ★ ★
Energy ★ ★ ★ ★ .5
Mind: ★ ★ ★ ★
Overall: ★ ★ ★ ★
Soundtrack: Godsmack, IV
I am an Obstetrician Gynecologist, and a father of three, so I do think that this gives me some expertise to talk about orgasms. And while this is not my usual commentary on this running blog, I do think that this is a topic that needs to be addressed. Especially since I had such an incredible run this evening.
A lot of people like to talk about a Runner's High. Certainly there is something reinvigorating and energizing about running, but I think the word "high" is missing the point. See, that makes me think about sitting around, chilling out on the couch, listening to the Grateful Dead, and eventually needing a nap. A Runner's High is quite the opposite, and I think has more in common biochemically with an orgasm than anything.
For those who don't know what I'm talking about, I'll give you an example. And it starts with music. So I listen to all types of music - hard rock, classic rock, classical, reggae, hip hop, R&B, pop, you name it. I'm not a fan of country, but that's about it (sorry Garth!). When I'm running though, I pretty much prefer rock, as you can see from following my soundtracks. Rock pretty much keeps me pumped up for the run, and keeps things high energy.
Usually on most runs about 2 or 3 miles in I will find the perfect combo of a rocking good song and a good pace. And this is where the Runner's High kicks in. My experience of this is a wave of hormones and endorphins that pour out of my brain and flow down my spinal cord. Everything then gets into my blood stream and my pace picks up for at least the next minute of two. It's actually quite awesome, and you really can feel that there are chemicals are literally coming out of the brain and going down your back.
If I had to guess, I am almost certain that these hormones are going to be natural opiates, adrenaline, oxytocin, norepinephrine, serotonin and the like. All the same kind of stuff that gets kicked off with an orgasm, and really is responsible for the positive feedback that keeps you coming back for more. In fact, mathematically I would put it this way Runner's High = 0.25 x Orgasm (+/- 10%), and is best called a Running Orgasm, rather than a high.
Now if you are thinking that you would like this experience - you are right. However, you need to train up for this and I usually find that you need to get to the right distance, at least 2 or 3 miles, and you need to be in the "zone" a little. Seriously, it has a lot of similarities to the bed room. Also, it doesn't happen on every run, but with the right practice, and the right music, you can get this great feeling most of the time.