Jul 3, 2009 11:34 PM
Does anyone notice a change in mentality when they run vs. periods of non-running?
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I ask because I heard a similar comment about my father (who is a very good distance runner), and have noticed that personally I become more intense. That is, when I am out of a regular running program ( or reflecting on the times when I seldom ran), I am more casual, laid back, and maybe less focused versus when I am in a more intense running regimine, I am more focused, driven, impatient, and potentially onery (more so than usual that is, I am willing to admit that I am frequently a cranky guy, but the level does change).
Absolutely. That happens to me no matter what workouts I miss. A doctor friend once told me its endorphin addiction.
It's funny you mention that...I just began Week 5 this morning, and in the last week or so, I've noticed myself becoming more organized, especially at work.
I feel more focused and happier both on the job and at home. I think I've gotten more done this morning than all of last week! Yet another benefit of running, I suppose!
I definately feel that! Running gives me a lot of time to think, reflect, and solve problems in my head -- which makes me much more focused and ready to take action. I've also noticed that running is the best thing at the end of a bad/long day. It gives me energy and powers me out of that bad mood into the "I AM POWERFUL" mindset.
Endorphine addiction? Running at the end of a bad/long day? Wow this is making so much sense now, I usually run when I'm in a bad mood and I feel a lot better afterwards, even on my rest days (yes I know it's terrible). I guess I'm like a junkie ![]()
I DEFINITELY am in a better mental state (better mood) when I work out than when I don't. I had always heard that exercise would improve your mood, but I I noticed one particular example that absolutely proved it to ME personally.
A few weeks after I began my exercise regimen last spring, I noticed that I was singing with the radio on the way to work. I USED to sing with the radio all the time, but I suddenly realized that for some time (maybe years) I had not sung with the radio. The ONLY change in my life at that point was the addition of exercise to my daily routine.

livin' in Savannah, GA

I completely do. A while back I got shin splints from running on shoes that were too old and had no cushion left. To over come the injury I had to cut down from seven days a week to only a few days and redue miliage while healing. I saw a clear different during the two off days in a row. Running, for me anyway, helps keep life centered and gives me a clear focus. It has an almost zen quality to it for me. During long periods of not running a feel like I'm drifting and unfocused.
Tom Slot
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I slip into a mild lethargy when I don't run. It is my boost and my relaxation. I am a much better person, happier, more productive and energetic.
Alicia G.
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