Where are the supposed endorphins???

lorrennon

I have been diligently making sure I walk 5 miles a day at a brisk pace maintaining a heart rate 150-170. I have been told and read in many places that this should release endorphins and I should "feel" better, yet all I get is tired. Yes, I am losing weight, going faster and overall in better shape, but I still hate the world at the end of day. Was really hoping this exercise thing would help with my depression too but there I am at a loss. Anyone else in the same boat or any clues as to why I don't get the "exercise high" that I read about???

CaddieMay

but I still hate the world at the end of day. Was really hoping this exercise thing would help with my depression too but there I am at a loss.

Hand to God, it's like we're living the same life.

LazSommer

Walking will not give you an "exercise high."

Almost dying from a workout might. Pushing yourself. Not giving up. You know. That kind of stuff.

jewelryS

Sometimes you can over do it. When I took up doing cardio again I was doing 4 miles a day and I just felt tired. Then I remember reading many years ago books by the fit or fat guy Covert Bailey. Over doing it can break things down too much. The idea is to work the body and bring the heart rate up long enough to help the body develop those fat burning enzymes. I changed my workout to 20 minutes of Ramping and then worked up to 30 minutes. Ramping means on a scale of 1 -10, 1 being sitting little or no effort, 10 being as hard as you can move, you start at about a 5 for lets say 2 minutes then increase to a 9 one minute at a time then drop back to a 6 and do it again until you been doing it for 20 to 30 minutes. (I increase every 1 minute) The workout is great I sweat my butt off, I don't feel drained or exhausted but I feel worked. I do my cardio first thing in the morning because it works better for me and since I started doing my workout this way I feel great the rest of the day. When I was doing the 4 miles I was drained. Don't get me wrong I do a long pushing walk once every 2 to 3 weeks to shock my system a little and keep it guessing. And walking can bring those endorphins up but not if you feel exhausted.

LazSommer

Also, is the weight a symptom or a cause? Keep losing but maybe your happiness lies elsewhere.

lorrennon

Walking will not give you an "exercise high."

Almost dying from a workout might. Pushing yourself. Not giving up. You know. That kind of stuff.

I assure you, every step I take falls in that category. Ive had knee surgery, back surgery and have been using a cane for a few years. When I started I was lucky to do a 1/2 mile at 2.5 mph. Now I am doing 5 at 4.0 with a slight incline. Yes, I still hold on to the treadmill, but only to steady myself. Running is simply not an option yet as I still need my cane to steady myself off the treadmill. I was young and invincible once, and that was my downfall. An accident that broke over half the bones in my body and that has come back to haunt me over the years. Had I chosen to give up anywhere along life's journey (which includes daily therapy as well as in the gym), I would not be here.

PinkyFett

Since exercising, I have been way less depressed and I get energy.

And, I have Hashimoto's and energy is unheard of. I love exercising.

mereditheve

I don't know your current health condition, but a five mile fast walk is what I do when I want to grab a drink at a nearby restaurant. I don't really think of it as exercise, but it's the getting outdoors part that makes me feel refreshed. Are you walking outside or on a treadmill? There's no way I'd enjoy that same five mile walk on a treadmill....

If you're able to, I would find a more challenging workout. Lifting is the best for me and my workout varies each day, which keeps it interesting and challenging. I also enjoy seeing how much more I can lift now versus last month, or the month before. While I enjoy running, I find lifting better than running, but everyone is different. I never really got the "runner's high" myself, and it's not because I didn't run fast or far enough. I would add that you should be doing something that you enjoy and get a sense of accomplishment from.

Why not take up something fun, like tennis, or kayaking, or even salsa dancing? All of them are great workouts and if you don't get endorphins from those, well, I don't know what to tell you!

Edit: Sorry I just now see you added that you've had knee and back surgery. I can empathize -- I was a runner in college and sustained a really bad injury that left me unable to walk for a very long time. It was extremely depressing, and exercise did not make me happy, as it was a reminder of all the things I still couldn't do again. The best thing for it is a positive attitude and know in your heart that you are strong and will recover and be able to do things that your doctors probably said you couldn't. My ER doctor told me I might never walk again... since then I have run marathons and climbed mountains. Don't let it get you down... keep persevering.

Lleldiranne

Any chance you can get outside to do some of your walking? You'll have to plan carefully so you turn back by your halfway point (or have a good circuit). Both the sunlight and just being out seeing the scenery can help fight depression as well. It can depend a lot on where you are (city, neighborhood, etc) but it could definitely be worth a try.


[FWIW, I've dealt with depression for years, and exercise sometimes helps and sometimes doesn't. There are times when the benefits of the right medication can become very appropriate]

tracydr

Walking will not give you an "exercise high."

Almost dying from a workout might. Pushing yourself. Not giving up. You know. That kind of stuff.

I assure you, every step I take falls in that category. Ive had knee surgery, back surgery and have been using a cane for a few years. When I started I was lucky to do a 1/2 mile at 2.5 mph. Now I am doing 5 at 4.0 with a slight incline. Yes, I still hold on to the treadmill, but only to steady myself. Running is simply not an option yet as I still need my cane to steady myself off the treadmill. I was young and invincible once, and that was my downfall. An accident that broke over half the bones in my body and that has come back to haunt me over the years. Had I chosen to give up anywhere along life's journey (which includes daily therapy as well as in the gym), I would not be here.

How about the elliptical, spinning, swimming or rowing?

Alluminati

I have been diligently making sure I walk 5 miles a day at a brisk pace maintaining a heart rate 150-170. I have been told and read in many places that this should release endorphins and I should "feel" better, yet all I get is tired. Yes, I am losing weight, going faster and overall in better shape, but I still hate the world at the end of day. Was really hoping this exercise thing would help with my depression too but there I am at a loss. Anyone else in the same boat or any clues as to why I don't get the "exercise high" that I read about???

Might need more vigorous excercise. Walking for me does nothing because I....walk in everyday life. Try something more challenging. Also, it's something that seemed to build up pver time, for me. I know when I skip a week of excercising I can tell that I'm more irritable, grumpy, and my family knows to stay out of my way. :laugh:

mereditheve

Walking will not give you an "exercise high."

Almost dying from a workout might. Pushing yourself. Not giving up. You know. That kind of stuff.

I assure you, every step I take falls in that category. Ive had knee surgery, back surgery and have been using a cane for a few years. When I started I was lucky to do a 1/2 mile at 2.5 mph. Now I am doing 5 at 4.0 with a slight incline. Yes, I still hold on to the treadmill, but only to steady myself. Running is simply not an option yet as I still need my cane to steady myself off the treadmill. I was young and invincible once, and that was my downfall. An accident that broke over half the bones in my body and that has come back to haunt me over the years. Had I chosen to give up anywhere along life's journey (which includes daily therapy as well as in the gym), I would not be here.

How about the elliptical, spinning, swimming or rowing?

Before you do ellipticals, spinning, or rowing, make sure you aren't going to exacerbate your knee/back injury. While these are all low impact, they do put a strain on your knees and rowing engages the muscles in your back. Swimming is an excellent way to build muscle back safely (and it burns a ton of calories).

lorrennon

I don't know your current health condition, but a five mile fast walk is what I do when I want to grab a drink at a nearby restaurant. I don't really think of it as exercise, but it's the getting outdoors part that makes me feel refreshed. Are you walking outside or on a treadmill? There's no way I'd enjoy that same five mile walk on a treadmill....

If you're able to, I would find a more challenging workout. Lifting is the best for me and my workout varies each day, which keeps it interesting and challenging. I also enjoy seeing how much more I can lift now versus last month, or the month before. While I enjoy running, I find lifting better than running, but everyone is different. I never really got the "runner's high" myself, and it's not because I didn't run fast or far enough. I would add that you should be doing something that you enjoy and get a sense of accomplishment from.

Why not take up something fun, like tennis, or kayaking, or even salsa dancing? All of them are great workouts and if you don't get endorphins from those, well, I don't know what to tell you!

Note my weight loss pic is canoeing with my daughter. My doctor says I should be able to get back in my kayak in about a year (but will be stuck to pretty much class2+ or lower. Doc told me I should give it up entirely but its too much fun.. Its doubtful that I will ever bowl, golf, play tennis, etc,., ever again, but the dream is still there. I take walks outside but because I have to use a cane I cant get cardio in unless I have something to hold onto. that's why I use a treadmill. Thanks for your support though.

lorrennon

Before you do ellipticals, spinning, or rowing, make sure you aren't going to exacerbate your knee/back injury. While these are all low impact, they do put a strain on your knees and rowing engages the muscles in your back. Swimming is an excellent way to build muscle back safely (and it burns a ton of calories).

I cant do elliptical yet, tried but put me in ER.. Swimming I do when I can.. I was a red cross swimming instructor years ago and still teach kids how to swim.. What exactly is spinning ?

rushmama5

maybe more h2o and music that makes you feel exuberant. maybe less
diligence and attention on maintaining stats. Can you walk in a park or
green belt? Beauty and oxygen are helpful. For me the children and dogs
playing in the street add to the (high) Some other things to consider:
learn about calcification of the pineal gland and the hypothalamus. I am
by no means an expert on this but I think those are the glands that put
out those hormones. Eating the colors of the rainbow is a good rule too.
wishing you joy in your future workouts!

missylectro

I think you should try a different kind of exercise. Maybe some weight lifting. And also it takes some time, the more you do it the better it feels. I have bipolar so I know where you are coming from.

Alluminati

Before you do ellipticals, spinning, or rowing, make sure you aren't going to exacerbate your knee/back injury. While these are all low impact, they do put a strain on your knees and rowing engages the muscles in your back. Swimming is an excellent way to build muscle back safely (and it burns a ton of calories).

I cant do elliptical yet, tried but put me in ER.. Swimming I do when I can.. I was a red cross swimming instructor years ago and still teach kids how to swim.. What exactly is spinning ?

riding stationary bikes in a group

mereditheve

You could always move the treadmill outdoors! You might get funny looks from the neighbors, but that would be a change of scenery!

In all seriousness, never ever believe that you won't be able to do something again -- whether it's kayaking, golf, tennis, etc. It's not if, it's when. It's not can't, it's how. Statistics are based on average people... don't be average!

Barbellarella_

I have been diligently making sure I walk 5 miles a day at a brisk pace maintaining a heart rate 150-170. I have been told and read in many places that this should release endorphins and I should "feel" better, yet all I get is tired. Yes, I am losing weight, going faster and overall in better shape, but I still hate the world at the end of day. Was really hoping this exercise thing would help with my depression too but there I am at a loss. Anyone else in the same boat or any clues as to why I don't get the "exercise high" that I read about???

How is a brisk walk getting your heart rate up to 170??? Sorry but that's not really adding up to me. Are you wearing a heart rate monitor?

hearthwood

I don't think walking can get your heart rate up to 170. I used to be able to get there thru heavy cardio, but now with cardio I can get to 140 150 range, and no higher. Have you exercised before, or are you just beginning? Endurance doesn't come overnight, which is the requirement for endorphin release.

You're referring to a runners high, that can be attained thru other types of workouts, cardio, jogging, mountain bike riding, etc. Now this type of workout is not a casual walk in the park. It's the I am having a hard time breathing, sweaty workout that lasts more than a couple of minutes, I usually hit it after 20-25 minutes of heavy cardio.

To describe it to you, it's that second wind you get that sends you flying over the next hill, making you feel like you can go on forever. You're in the zone at that point.

If you just started exercising you're not there yet. You describe more of a struggle than enjoying it. Once you get past that, and begin to feel comfortable with being uncomfortable, you will find that second wind, and yes it can be a natural cure for depression.

As they say-"you're only one workout away from a good mood." That's very true.

SomeNights246

Walking will not give you an "exercise high."

Almost dying from a workout might. Pushing yourself. Not giving up. You know. That kind of stuff.

Yeah.

I only get the 'exercise high' after very intense cardio. Jogging, elliptical, etc.

Also, it's not a cure for depression. I have a mood disorder myself (bipolar II), and yeah, the endorphines help - but they are far from permanent. Once it wears off (lasts about 30-60 minutes), the depression hits again. It's too often touted as a cure, when really it's just a tool to use in recovery from depression.

conqueringsquidlette

I have an issue with my brain and dopamine, personally, that I take meds for.

To my understanding the "runner's high" is mostly dopamine based, which explains why I've never gotten it. *shrug*

lorrennon

You could always move the treadmill outdoors! You might get funny looks from the neighbors, but that would be a change of scenery!

In all seriousness, never ever believe that you won't be able to do something again -- whether it's kayaking, golf, tennis, etc. It's not if, it's when. It's not can't, it's how. Statistics are based on average people... don't be average!

I dont think planet fitness would like me much if I tried that, but what the hell...

The dream is still there...losing the weight is a step towards that dream.

lorrennon

I have been diligently making sure I walk 5 miles a day at a brisk pace maintaining a heart rate 150-170. I have been told and read in many places that this should release endorphins and I should "feel" better, yet all I get is tired. Yes, I am losing weight, going faster and overall in better shape, but I still hate the world at the end of day. Was really hoping this exercise thing would help with my depression too but there I am at a loss. Anyone else in the same boat or any clues as to why I don't get the "exercise high" that I read about???

How is a brisk walk getting your heart rate up to 170??? Sorry but that's not really adding up to me. Are you wearing a heart rate monitor?

Being really out of shape will do that.. Assume you weigh 150 pounds.... then strap on an 80 pound bag of concrete and maintain 4 mph for an hour or so.. Guarantee your heart rate will climb.

heybales

I've been exercising for 30 years, with the cardio those endorphins come from, at various levels of intensity and duration, and only once, as a teenage on a run, do I recall getting that euphoric feeling that I felt so good I could keep going. And I did for another 30-60 min, don't recall exactly.

Never any other times. I've had times where I've gone slow enough I didn't kill my carb stores, so I got a 2nd wind you might say, but even that is rare. Slow usually means recovery run, and that means short too.

I think being out of shape will probably not allow it either, your body is just releasing cortisol and staying elevated because of the stress of the workout, that is probably killing the desired effect of other hormones.

And from those that have described getting it, it started taking longer or more intense to get, or it wasn't as strong a feeling, or it went away.
I know in one case they really overtrained and injured themselves because they had to keep going longer to get it and more intense, and their goal each run was to feel it.

vlmay1955

Well the high varies quite a bit from day to day and lots of other things can interfere with it. It's sort of like taking aspirin for pain. It may have a dramatic effect (pain completely goes away) or practically none, depending on the pain, what is causing it, body chemistry, etc. If you are suffering from clinical depression, exercise will definitely help (it is probably helping more than you know) but it's unlikely to make the depression go completely away. I can tell you that there are days I run, that it makes me feel so absolutely wonderful that even after running for miles, I am not tired, only euphoric, yes I CAN feel those endorphins flooding my bloodstream. Other days, it's just a run. Ho-hum. Same with my Taekwondo practice and pretty much every other exercise I do. Our bodies, health and emotions are very complex. Relax and feel....you are probably getting more benefit than you realize.

rushmama5

Walking gives me a major exercise high! I don't do well in a gym.
I feel claustrophobic. I can walk happily in any weather. I need to
see the trees and clouds and birds etc. I go to a gym and imagine
breathing in all the other people's exhales and get weird-ed out.
Crazy, I know I mean really people are exhaling every where you
go, right?

hearthwood

That's the problem, you're out of shape. You probably haven't exercised much in your life and are expecting too much to soon. Being overweight you probably tire easily, and are winded. Endurance takes time to build, it's not something we are born with, you have to work heart and lungs, to get endurance in whatever cardio you're doing.

And if you are working heart and lungs, one day you will experience attainment of a second wind, just when you thought you could do no more, where your heart rate drops a little, you're breathing goes into a shallower tone, (not breathing as hard) you suddenly feel great and want to go another couple of miles, and or continue with whatever cardio exercise you're doing. That's the high from cardio. Its a wonderful feeling, and it's also highly addictive.

conqueringsquidlette

Husband has been running everyday for over a decade and hasn't ever felt it either. I think it's probably not a universal thing.