Runner's High- By Nuala Hynes

     First of all, I know I've already talked about running during two blogs already but running has seriously become a main part of my life over the past three years. I've run distances as short as a 400 meter, but also reached distances as long as a half marathon. I spend a lot of time lacing up sneakers, sweating through all my clothes, and then having to peel those clothes off my body. Running is one of the most important parts of my life. I know I spew hateful language about running, but I don't know where I would be without running.
     First, I would have a lot less friends. Unlike other sports, running is a sport in which you can't hide your emotions from your team. You all do the same workout and there's no cheating that workout. You teammates have watched you cry through a hard workout on a bad day but they have also watched you crush mile repeats like nobody's business. Some friends I have made through running are seriously friends I think I will have for my entire life. We've been through so much together: sweat, blood, tears, all of it. But I wouldn't trade it for anything.
     Next, running has created a bond between my father and I. Neither of my sisters are competitive in  many sports so my dad puts all his energy into being competitive for me. I am competitive on my own, believe me, but it's also nice to have someone screaming from the side of the track, believing in me all the time. Both my parents are like this, but especially my dad who needs weekly updates on training and if I have any meets that week. My dad always wants me to do my best, and tries to make it to every meet he can.
     Now, for the runner's high. My biology teacher brought up this term earlier, mentioning it was a result of dopamine in the body. Although sometimes I don't believe the runner's high is an actual thing, other days I feel like I'm on cloud nine. Sometimes, finishing a workout is euphoric. Somehow, running creates an atmosphere where your body can be put through tremendous amounts of pain and still come out smiling.
     I hate running. I love running. I hate running. I love running. The love/hate relationship is a relationship I believe many runners can relate to. I wouldn't trade running for anythings. And I love the love/hate relationship I have with running. I LOVE TO RUN. There, I said it. -Nuala Hynes