Do you run every day?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

To the PP asking about mileage -- I run about 40 miles a week -- a little over 5 a day. to me, under 5 isn't worth my time.

I only do short, 2-3 mile runs, but I run hard. When I do slower, longer runs, I don't feel as good. To me, it's the intensity of the workout that lifts my spirits. Not saying you're running slowly, just adding my own thoughts.

I average between 7:30/8:15 minute miles

You're clearly not dogging it! I just think sometimes people lose the cardio benefits when they only focus on distance and not on speed.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Used to take Zoloft for anxiety. Started running after diagnosis of Osteopenia 3 years ago, run 2.5 mi. 6 days per week, now don't need the Zoloft. I'm in my late 50's (female).

Maybe you just had a doctor that writes prescriptions a little too easily

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I personally think that if exercise is keeping anxiety at bay, then you should keep exercising and not worry about taking meds. Meds have side effects. There's also a good chance you'll be able to exercise into your golden years (swimming, yoga, tennis, etc). If it ain't broke...

I agree with this completely. Exercise is a recognized treatment for depression and has been shown to be more effective than any medication. If it works for you, there is no reason to pursue other/additional treatments.

(I say this as someone who exercises AND takes medication.)

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP here--I agree that there is a compulsive element after a while--for those of you who get and rely on the runner's high, do any other exercise/sports etc. give you the same feeling?

I used to run daily. I then wanted to improve my running game and started with a trainer to do some wights and circuits. I looove weight training now. Now I only do weights, intervals, rower, and stair climber. After running no more than 10 miles a week, I did a half marathon and hit a PR of 1:39 with ZERO running training. The high intensity weights and intervals are where it is at. And I can get up hills like a machine.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:OP here--I agree that there is a compulsive element after a while--for those of you who get and rely on the runner's high, do any other exercise/sports etc. give you the same feeling?

The question is bigger than that. Are you fighting off depression or anxiety? Maybe the running is working but it is a precarious thing to rely on, especially since it sounds compulsive. Is there any reason you haven't gotten professional help? I have depression. I run 30 to 35 miles a week and it absolutely helps my mental health. But I also take medication and see a therapist. Last week I was pretty sick and couldn't run. If it was my only support I would have been pretty miserable. plus there are days when I have to miss a run because of something with my kids or whatever and I can do that without wigging out.

If running is the medicine, SSRIs are not needed. I consider meds a last resort. Exercise is a proven treatment for mentsl health. Maybe you need more fire power. Looks like many others don't.