‘Second wind’ describes the phenomenon where, after an initial period of breathlessness and difficulty early in sustained exercise, a runner suddenly feels more comfortable and able to continue with relative ease. It is thought to result from the body fully shifting to aerobic metabolism, optimal blood flow redistribution and the clearing of the initial oxygen deficit. The endorphin release sometimes called ‘runner’s high’ is a related but distinct phenomenon. Proper warm-up reduces the early discomfort that precedes the second wind.
Key points
- Return of ease after early difficulty
- Body shifts fully to aerobic metabolism
- Distinct from ‘runner’s high’ (endorphins)
- Warm-up reduces preceding discomfort