runner's high

Definition

The euphoric state experienced during or after prolonged running, caused by endocannabinoid and endorphin release. Non-runners remain skeptical this exists, while runners evangelically insist it's worth the joint damage.

Example Usage

She claims runner's high makes her feel invincible around mile 6, which explains why she keeps signing up for marathons despite complaining about every single one.

Origin

Coined in the 1970s during the jogging boom, scientifically validated in the 2000s

Fun Fact

The runner's high is chemically similar to cannabis, which finally explains why runners are so annoyingly peaceful and keep trying to convert everyone to their lifestyle.

Source: Running culture and exercise psychology terminology

Related Terms

Beginner

chalk it up

The act of coating your hands with magnesium carbonate powder before lifting heavy weights to improve grip and reduce slippage. Also serves as a territorial marking system to show everyone you're serious.

⚽ Sports / Fitness

Intermediate

pyramid sets

A set structure where you progressively increase weight while decreasing reps (ascending), or vice versa (descending), or both (triangle). Math class meets the weight room.

⚽ Sports / Fitness

Beginner

runner's knee

Patellofemoral pain syndrome causing pain around the kneecap, typically from overuse or biomechanical issues. The injury that makes runners question their life choices while still planning their next run.

⚽ Sports / Fitness

Beginner

PR day

The day you attempt to break your personal records, typically accompanied by excessive pre-workout, questionable form, and aggressive grunting. It's when gym-goers become their own hype squad and film everything for proof.

⚽ Sports / Fitness

Advanced

microcycle

The smallest division in periodized training, typically lasting one week. Where the rubber meets the road and your carefully planned macrocycle becomes Tuesday's actual workout.

⚽ Sports / Fitness

Intermediate

CrossFit

A fitness program that combines weightlifting, cardio, and the uncontrollable urge to tell everyone you do CrossFit. The first rule of CrossFit is that you always talk about CrossFit. The second rule is also that you always talk about CrossFit.

⚽ Sports / Fitness

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