Why Some People Can't Stop Running, According To Science

Sport psychologists explain why some runners seem addicted to the sport.

- Andrew Wood

Alex has a problem with running; he has become addicted to it. “I have to get out and run, whether my family likes it or not,” he says. “It’s just who I am.” Running three times a week has become ten times a week, and when life gets in the way of his running, Alex becomes irritable and racked with guilt.

He has gone from what was a healthy pursuit, to an unhealthy overindulgence. His body is shot to pieces and is mentally and physically exhausted. But still, he keeps running.

The physical and mental benefits of running are indisputable. But runners can have too much of a good thing. This is especially true for long-distance runners as they tend to increase their training loads and become increasingly competitive. They’re at risk of making a shift from healthy perseverance (“I want to run”) to unhealthy and pressured overindulgence (“I have to run”).

HERE’S HOW IT HAPPENS

Say you start running because you want to get fit and be at a healthy weight. You try it and you like it, so you stick with it. After a month, you notice that your clothes fit better. Then colleagues and friends comment on how healthy you look lately, and your running buddies comment on your improved technique and speed. Your times are improving. You’re achieving things, beating others, and you get a rush when you run.