Happiness hormones such as endorphins and dopamine are neurotransmitters that increase well-being, alleviate pain and promote motivation and happiness. During sport, these hormones are increasingly released, resulting in the well-known effect of the “runner’s high” — a state of increased euphoria and satisfaction. In this article, you can find out what this actually looks like and what positive effects it has on our health.
Release of endorphins
Endorphins are the body’s own opiates that act on the opioid receptors in the brain and dampen the sensation of pain. They are mainly released during prolonged, intensive sporting activities.
Mechanism of endorphin release:
- stress reaction of the body: sport is initially perceived by the body as a stress. As a result, the hypothalamus activates the pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis).
- release of endorphins: The pituitary gland releases endorphins, which dock onto opioid receptors and relieve pain and create a feeling of euphoria.
- pain relief: endorphins reduce the transmission of pain signals in the central nervous system, making sport more pleasant even under high levels of stress.
Release of dopamine
Dopamine is a central messenger substance in the brain’s reward system and is responsible for motivation, drive and the feeling of reward. Exercise leads to an increased release of dopamine, which increases well-being and, in the long term, increases motivation for repeated training.
Mechanism of dopamine release:
- reward system: physical activity activates the mesolimbic system, particularly the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the striatum, where dopamine is released.
- Increased motivation: Dopamine release provides a sense of reward and increases the willingness to repeat similar activities.
- long-term effects: Regular exercise increases the sensitivity of dopamine receptors, which means that even moderate activity can bring pleasure.
Interaction of endorphins and dopamine
While endorphins produce acute effects such as pain relief and short-term euphoria, dopamine provides long-term drive and motivation. The interaction of these hormones explains why sport is not only enjoyable during activity, but also has a positive effect on mood in the long term.
Other factors in the release of hormones
- serotonin: also a happiness hormone that is released during sport and contributes to relaxation and a better mood.
- noradrenaline: contributes to alertness and concentration.
- cortisol: Is initially increased, but decreases in the long term with regular training, which reduces stress.
As you can see, it is not only worth keeping on the ball with training for your physical fitness and physical health, but also to feel good all round with positive feelings.
Learn more about the role of endorphin and dopamine release through exercise in improving mental health.