I know there is scientific evidence that points to an increase of endorphins and that is what classifies as a “runner’s high.” I would like to present the notion that there is another sort of “runner’s high” that comes more from our attitudes and mental toughness. Personally, some of my most gratifying runs have been those that started out the hardest- I was tired that day, had a big breakfast that was sitting heavy, didn’t drink enough water leading up to, you name it. I’m convinced that convincing myself that I was feeling a high is what got me through to the end, and usually had a spring in my step to boot.
I think getting this idea in kids’ heads could help them get excited about running. Based on the science of when (and IF) the endorphins kick in for a runner’s high, I don’t know that kids' exertion at the distances for Ready, Set, Run! would actually produce this high. Maybe, but hear me out. If we get them turning into their selves to look for that high, how satisfying would that be? Kids would learn the power of pushing through the hard stuff and accomplishing what they set out to do. Really the whole basis behind the program. Showing kids that they already have the bodies, they already have the minds, all they need to do is physically train for a bit and they can achieve their goal.
I’m fully convinced that running positively affects lives. Let’s go get some kids excited about running!
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