Thomas has just finished the Boston Marathon and is feeling great.His blood pressure is high, his respirations are rapid, and he is extremely sweaty, but he feels elated to be alive.He's experiencing a "runner's high." Which of the following is primarily responsible for this pleasurable feeling?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Endorphins are natural painkillers that are released in response to intense physical exertion like running a marathon. These endorphins also produce a feeling of euphoria, commonly known as a "runner's high". This feeling is responsible for Thomas feeling great after finishing the marathon despite the high blood pressure, rapid respirations, and extreme sweating. Melatonin is a hormone responsible for regulating sleep, dopamine is a neurotransmitter that regulates movement and emotions, and testosterone is a hormone responsible for the development of male physical characteristics. None of these are responsible for the runner's high experienced by Thomas. Therefore, the correct choice is A) endorphins.

Thomas Has Just Finished the Boston Marathon and Is Feeling