#USA #Knoxville #Marathon #Pain Relief #Goody's®

Smile in Strides: Goody's® Encourages Smiling at Marathons

Goody's®, a well-known name in over-the-counter pain relief, has recently made headlines by launching an engaging initiative aimed at marathon runners. This campaign, aptly named 'Smile 20', was designed to illuminate the positive effects of smiling, particularly in easing pain and enhancing athletic performance.

On April 6, 2025, Goody's® held its inaugural event during the Knoxville Marathon. The initiative celebrates an intriguing link between the simple act of smiling and the reduction of physical pain, which could be a game-changer for runners who often encounter significant physical stress during races. A new white paper, titled "The Science of Smiling: Benefits to Pain Relief," was released to support this phenomenon, drawing from more than 20 years of scientific research.

The white paper highlights the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which are responsible for creating feelings of happiness and have a substantial impact on pain perception. By encouraging athletes to smile, Goody's® aims to utilize these scientific findings to boost not only the mood but also the endurance of runners, especially as they hit the notorious 'mile 20' of a marathon. This particular mile marks a critical point in any long-distance race when fatigue sets in and glycogen stores are depleted, making it a potential barrier for many runners.

At the Knoxville Marathon, the Smile 20 activation engaged runners in a delightful surprise. As they reached mile 20, participants were photgraphed and their images were displayed on a giant digital screen enhanced with an AI smile filter. This innovative twist turned their race expressions into bright, joyful smiles, igniting a contagious energy that lifted their spirits and spurred them onward. Tracking data indicated that many participants increased their speed after interacting with this experience, showcasing the positive effect that smiling can have on performance.

Frank Paukowits, Vice President of Marketing at Prestige Consumer Healthcare, expressed the company’s mission, stating, "We’re all about helping people fight pain when they need it most, and no one needs it more than a marathoner. Beyond pain relief during their recovery, we want to show up for this audience with science and creativity."

This isn't just a clever marketing strategy; it's deeply rooted in understanding athletes' pain points. Goody's® provides various fast-acting, single-dose powder pain relief products, including formulas specially targeted for headaches, body aches, and even nighttime discomfort. Their latest addition, Goody's® PLUS Headache Pain + Mental Alertness, combines aspirin with caffeine, making it an appealing choice for those recovering from strenuous activities.

With convenient flavors and on-the-go packaging, Goody's® products can easily fit into a runner's recovery routine. The brand's catchy slogan, 'Get to Good™', definitely resonates with marathon enthusiasts seeking support to recover and bounce back after rigorous training and racing.

Overall, the Smile 20 initiative not only emphasizes the critical aspect of mental wellbeing for athletes but also represents an innovative way to combine physical pain relief with positive reinforcement. As runners embrace the power of a simple smile during their races, Goody's® stands as a steadfast ally helping them overcome challenges and return to form in record time. For more information on Goody's® range of pain relief products, visit www.goodyspowder.com.

In conclusion, Goody's® has set a remarkable precedent by merging scientific insights with real-world applications, encouraging athletes to harness the power of positivity while running towards their goals. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a casual runner, a smile could be your best companion on the path to recovery.