BIOCHEMISTRY OF WELL-BEING AND EFFORT

Impact of Serotonin and Dopamine on Mood and Motivation.

Athlete performance and mental health are intrinsically linked to brain chemistry.

Physical exercise stimulates the release of various neurotransmitters that regulate well-being.

Serotonin is essential for relaxation and recovery; its release after intense exertion generates a profound sense of physical and mental calm.

For example, a long-distance cyclist, after completing a strenuous mountain stage, experiences deep muscular and mental relaxation at the end, facilitated by the secretion of serotonin, which seeps into the bloodstream and muscles.

In parallel, dopamine is the neurotransmitter associated with achievement and reward.

It is released when a goal is achieved or a challenge is overcome, providing a sense of satisfaction and euphoria.

Imagine a gymnast who, after months of failed attempts, finally manages to land a complex acrobatic stunt without error; that surge of pleasure and internal validation is a product of dopamine.

This chemical not only improves mood, but also reinforces behavior, motivating the athlete to repeat the effort in order to experience that feeling of success again.

Cortisol as an Indicator of Stress and its Management

In contrast to the feel-good chemicals, the body releases cortisol, known as the stress hormone, in situations of imminent threat or worry.

While it is a natural response, chronically elevated levels of cortisol can be detrimental to performance and health.

This neurotransmitter is secreted when the brain perceives imminent worry or danger to physical or mental well-being.

In sports, this can manifest before a crucial event where uncertainty is high.

For example, a tennis player facing a match point against in an important final may experience a cortisol spike due to fear of failure or external pressure.

Managing this biochemical response is essential, as unregulated stress negatively affects recovery, sleep and mental clarity.

Regular exercise and relaxation techniques help reduce cortisol levels, promoting a healthier hormonal balance.

Summary

The mental health of the athlete is intrinsically dependent on their brain chemistry. Serotonin generates calmness after physical exertion, while dopamine acts as an internal reward upon achievement or overcoming challenges.

These substances reinforce positive behavior and motivation. Feeling euphoria after a technical success drives the athlete to repeat the effort, seeking to experience again that chemical validation of satisfaction and well-being.

In contrast, cortisol is released in situations of competitive threat or uncertainty. Managing this stress hormone is crucial, as chronically elevated levels impair physical recovery and mental clarity.