Lessons in exercise neurobiology: The case of endorphins

This paper focuses on application of neuroscience techniques to exercise psychology for the purpose of obtaining better answers to questions about the effects of acute exercise on mood and other affective experiences. We do this through the lens of the popular idea that exercise can cause an endorphin-based high. Endogenous opioids and their interaction with other neurotransmitter systems are discussed, followed by a succinct historical account of the effects of acute exercise on endorphins and mood. Limitations of the approaches that have been taken are identified. A key message is that optimal progress toward truly understanding the psychological consequences of exercise will require that neuroscience techniques be combined with the strongest possible research designs.