S2E5: The Cognitive Benefits of Running (Science-Based)
S2E5: The Cognitive Benefits of Running (Science-Based)  
Podcast: The Consistently Good Podcast
Published On: Wed Mar 18 2026
Description: Coach gets into what running is doing for your brain beyond just helping you split faster miles. He unpacks why an easy run can feel oddly spiritual, how runner’s high actually works, and why movement can act like medicine for your mind. From endorphins and endocannabinoids to BDNF, brain inflammation, oxygen flow, memory, and mental health, Jeff explains how running can help regulate your nervous system, sharpen cognition, and make you feel a little more like yourself again. Chapters00:00 Welcome and New Topic01:59 Why Running Feels Spiritual05:17 Movement as Brain Medicine06:46 Runner’s High Explained08:34 Endocannabinoids and Calm11:44 Exercise and Mental Health19:21 BDNF: Miracle-Gro for the Brain23:17 Microglia and Brain Immunity27:05 Hippocampus and Memory Gains29:33 Sharper Thinking on Runs33:13 Oxygen Boost Explained44:10 Why Run Clubs Fight Loneliness47:56 Why Runners Get Creative50:58 Mailbag: Warmup Question56:21 Final TakeawaysBecome a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 25% off FOR LIFE ⁠https://www.bareperformancenutrition.com/collections/performance-nutritionBat City Track Club is an emerging national class and regionally elite team with a primary focus on distances 5,000m to the marathon.https://www.batcitytc.com/FOLLOW:IG: @theconsistentlygoodpodcast YT: @theconsistentlygoodpodcast JEFF CUNNINGHAM:IG: @jdcunningham97BAT CITY: @batcitytrackclubThis podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal [health or profession] advice. Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN) is not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.This podcast may not be republished without the written consent of Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN)MB01YQPWOYGICAZ