Jogging is a very healthy sport for reducing body fat, relieving stress and improving fitness. However, as with all things in life, too much of a good thing can sometimes have drawbacks. The euphoria that joggers get from running can be addictive.

 

 

Most athletes have a euphoric experience during or after a long jog. The euphoria is characterised by intense feelings, calmness and extreme satisfaction and balance. This euphoria is similar to a high and can act like a drug. It is caused by the release of endorphins in the brain, which are the body's natural opiates. 

 

The euphoria of running and jogging and other aerobic activities is programmed into human nature. It enabled prehistoric man to hunt for food for long periods of time and gave him the ability to flee even from enemies. 

 

 

To a certain extent, jogging and other sports can be just as addictive as a drug. In addition to the endorphin high, athletes are rewarded with a fit and lean body and a general sense of well-being. Overall, however, addiction to sport is certainly a good thing for body and soul. The anticipation of the euphoria is a good motivation to race. The word addiction has a negative connotation, but in the case of addiction to sport, you can use it to your advantage and enjoy it.

 

Addiction can only become dangerous if it leads to obsessive neurosis in extreme cases. This can happen when sport turns from a pleasure into an obsession. Similar to bulimia, the person affected becomes obsessed with jogging off at least as many calories as they take in. This can lead to permanent malnutrition and deficiency symptoms and ultimately to depression.