This Valentine’s Day, fitness experts say you can experience all the 'feel-good' sensations of falling in love...just by working out.

When we meet someone we find attractive, our hearts race, our palms sweat and our faces flush. Sound familiar? These are the same physical reactions most of us have when we work out. That’s because falling in love and exercising release many of the same chemicals, including

• Oxytocin: Known as the 'cuddle hormone', our bodies release oxytocin to give us a feeling of well-being when we fall in love. Exercise triggers the body to release oxytocin and studies show professional athletes produce more oxytocin when they compete with their teammates. 

• Endorphins: The brain releases endorphins during sustained, vigorous exercise. Endorphins cause feelings of euphoria, decreased appetite and can help boost the body’s immune response. When two people fall in love, the body will release a mix of endorphins, the body's natural morphine, accounting for the pleasure we feel when we’re in love.

• Adrenaline: Adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) is responsible for an increase in heartbeat, restlessness, and preoccupation many experience in the early stages of romance (or beyond). The initial stages of falling for someone activates your stress response, increasing your blood levels of adrenalin and cortisol. Adrenaline is also responsible for kick-starting cardiorespiratory activity when you exercise and contributes to a higher metabolism and a better mood. Even the anticipation of exercise can spark a rush of adrenaline. 

Want to experience the sensations of falling in love, but not interested in the emotional requirements? Exercise physiology expert Marc Ikin, operations manager for the GoodLife Fitness Personal Training Institute, says regular workouts are your best bet. He suggests building in cardio, as well as some strength training to activate the feel-good hormones. 

Local personal trainers are available to talk more about the physical and mental effects of fitness and to suggest the right workout moves that will fill your Valentine’s Day with endorphins, oxytocin and adrenaline….almost like being in LOVE.

Happy Valentine's Day.