I bike commute to work for a significant amount of time (about 1:15 each way) and most days I get out-of-the-blue ideas and solutions to situations&#x2F;problems starting usually around 45 minutes in. It also often happens that I get a shift of perspective&#x2F;viewpoint on something that is affecting me.<p>If you are not getting any of this when working out may I suggest going longer? After all for most people the &quot;runner&#x27;s high&quot; doesn&#x27;t really happen unless you run for a significant amount of time (personally, same as for riding, it usually takes at least 45 minutes before it starts, for other people I know even an hour)<p>I have to say that when I can&#x27;t ride to work but have to take transit (when it&#x27;s icy out) I am definitely less effective due to the lack of this 2x&#x2F;day burst of additional creativity (which is helpful on the way back too, get home, fire off emails and note some plans for the next day).<p>Note I have never taken drugs so I can&#x27;t offer any comparisons.