The term ‘Second Wind’ is used to describe the phenomena of magically gaining significant energy and strength during distance running at a stage when the runner feels out of breath or that he or she appears to reach a fatigued state and the feeling of not being able to continue.
Many marathon runners report that they achieve their second wind at various stages of their races and this process then enables them to continue and successfully complete their run.
Various theories have been suggested to be the cause of gaining ‘second-wind’ during running but as of yet, there has been no definite confirmation for the onset. Some researchers suggest that the second wind may be a result of the body counteracting the balance of the body’s oxygen consumption requirements and the build-up and removal of lactic acid within the working muscles. Others claim that the second wind phenomena is due to the release of endorphins during running which are the body’s naturally producing brain chemicals that are secreted and act to lower pain levels and reduce feelings of stress. Some scientists believe the phenomena may be psychological.
No definite answer has yet to be given therefore many reasons for reaching the second-wind stage during running are purely speculative.
Please feel free to contact the Manchester G4 Clinic to speak to a member of the team for any questions that you may have.