IF the cold wind drops this weekend, chances are you might be tempted to head out for a run and claim your first rush of endorphins – the chemicals that create the euphoria you experience during and after a run.

No matter what sport you play trying to get fitter then you will have experienced it. Lots of people are addicted to it, as well.

Some people say it gives them clarity, others like snooker player Ronnie O’Sullivan argue that it is good for keeping stress levels in check and others report feeling euphoric.

If you don’t know what it is, it’s basically a neurochemical that gets released around your body and one of four neurochemicals which make you feel a little happier.

But here’s the thing - endorphins did not evolve for good times as many people assume. In fact, there purpose is the complete opposite.

See, endorphins are triggered by physical pain. Think of taking a knock, a fall, or landing awkwardly on your ankle. You might have got up thinking you were fine, only to find yourself in pain a little later (the next day is usually worse).

The extra 30 minutes you were able to walk back home or continue to play is thanks to endorphins. It masks pain for a short time only to give you a chance to reach safety.

It goes back to the days when we were hunter gatherers and if your ancestor broke his leg while out hunting, or got worn down by hunger and thirst, endorphins helped him keep going.

“Runners high” might be a well-known endorphin experience, but a regular daily run does not always make you high. That’s because you have to push your body beyond its current capacity to the point of distress to get that same good feeling.

Ever noticed why you’re always tempted to want to kick on and run that little bit faster at the end of the run as your home is in sight? That’s because there’s a chance you haven’t got the high you went out looking for so you try to force it by pushing yourself right to the end.

This also explains why so many people drop off from running clubs or lose motivation or enjoyment from something that once gave them so much pleasure.

And on the reverse, it may also explain why some people tell you they’re addicted to running and just have to keep pushing themselves more and more and more – running every day until eventually something gives.

So, how do you avoid the endorphin disappointment? Firstly, exercise differently. When you repeat the same exercise, you activate the same muscles and neglect the same muscles.

If you try to keep getting endorphins from the same old exercise routine, you are likely to over-work a few spots beyond their ability to repair themselves. Secondly, stretch. Most people don’t realise it, but endorphins are released when you stretch and everyone can add it to a routine whether sat at work, in a chair, waiting in a queue or even in the shower on a morning.

Make exercise fun - running everyday can be boring and very monotonous. It’s no good for mental stimulation or your physical health.

Try anything to changing it, from activities like mountain climbing, tubing, rowing, kayaking, dancing, hiking, biking even gardening! They’re all great for endorphin releases and this is something I’d urge you to consider before you establish your summer fitness routine.

Go to www.paulgoughphysio.com/sports-injury-clinic for more fitness tips.