6 Reasons Why A Runner's High Is The Only High You'll Ever Need

There's no doubt that exercise is good for the body and mind. Even when you'd rather be curled up watching Netflix with a glass (or three) of wine, you know a workout — whenever you get to it — will be good for you.

I've always been active. When I got too short for basketball (while everyone else continued growing), then it was soccer. Then eight years of competitive gymnastics. Now I've traded in my leotards and velvet spandex for treadmills and dumbbells.

What can I say? I'm a dedicated gym rat.

There's nothing like lacing up your favorite pair of running shoes, getting lost in the ultimate workout playlist and going breathless. The high you get is worth the sweat, occasional tears and sore muscles.

It's priceless, and it's the only form of high I (or anyone else) need. Here's why:

1. A runner's high is legal everywhere.

Unlike drugs, you never have to worry about whether or not what you're doing is against the law; you can go running indoors, outdoors, in any state, at any time.

You can go running at the gym, outside your house or apartment, or around any track or neighborhood. Being able to achieve a runner's high anywhere makes it that much easier to plug in, zone out and run the stress away.

2. You can still take risks.

Because it's legal everywhere, you can still be adventurous without the negative side effects that any drug's high might give you. Go run through the colorful clamor of New York City or through the un-tread streets of downtown Los Angeles.

Go explore lush hiking trails and that one park your co-worker told you to check out. Go where your stride takes you.

3. A runner's high is always good for you.

We've been taught since the fourth grade to "just say no" to drugs.

I'm not one to judge, and, let's be honest, I think we've all at least dabbled here and there. But when you put on those Nikes, there's no doubt that something good will come from it.

Just like any high, there might be days you have a bad trip, but even if your runner's high isn't what you expected, no harm will come to you (even if your aching legs argue otherwise).

4. You can still enjoy it with friends.

If you don't like running by yourself, find a friend to work out with you.

A running buddy might just be the motivation you need to get out of bed and conquer those 5 miles you've always wanted to complete.

Plus, you can make a date out it and go for celebratory kale smoothies afterward.

5. It makes you look good and feel amazing.

Who doesn't want to fuel their body with positive, all-natural energy? It makes you look good, and when you look good, you feel good.

Building muscle and tone can strengthen you -- not only physically, but mentally, too. So embrace that runner's glow and exude confidence both on and off the track (or treadmill).

6. A runner's high is cost-free.

Unlike the high you get from drugs, it costs nothing to go out on a run. You can enjoy your high with the best of them without making a dent in your wallet.

And, let's be real, that might be the most important part.

A runner's high doesn't come in different pills, powders or plants — there's nothing complicated or sketchy about it.

What you see (or rather, feel) is what you get. And the best part? After a long week of running around the office and your gym of choice, you'll feel better about those wine-filled dates with your bed and favorite Netflix series.

Trust me.