By Dan Reich

The phenomenon of “Runner’s High” has long been attributed to endorphins, but new studies suggest another origin: the body’s own endocannabinoid system. Scientists have long questioned the role of endorphins in the runner’s high sensation, in part because endorphins cannot cross into the brain through the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from toxins and pathogens. Therefore, endorphins are not likely to be the main driver for the beneficial effects of exercise on mood and mental state.

Recent human and animal studies are pointing to the body’s own endocannabinoid system as the source of the euphoric sensations experienced when engaged in strenuous exercise. A Wayne State University study found that acute exercise consistently boosted endocannabinoid levels across studies. The effects were most consistent for a chemical messenger known as anandamide – the so-called “bliss” molecule, which was named, in part, for its positive effects on mood.

Wayne State’s Dr. Bonn-Miller states: “There’s a lot of overlap in terms of the pathways that are activated between what’s known as a runner’s high and the high that comes from THC,” he said. “Both of those involve activation of the endocannabinoid system, so it’s not too surprising that THC might be used to enhance the runner’s high that’s gained from endurance exercise.”

A University of Colorado at Boulder study found that 80% of cannabis users enjoy it while working out, with 70% saying it increases enjoyment, 78% saying it boosts recovery (CBD is well known for easing inflammation) and 52% saying it motivates them. Curiously, another study of older adults found that those who used marijuana got more exercise than those who didn’t.

“Cannabis is often associated with a decrease in motivation— that stereotype of couch-lock and laziness,” said Laurel Gibson, a CU researcher. “But at the same time, we are seeing an increasing number of anecdotal reports of people using it in combination with everything from golfing and yoga to snowboarding and running. “It is possible that exogenous cannabinoids like THC or CBD might activate the endocannabinoid system in a way that mimics the runner’s high,” she added.

Research has shown that exercise is also highly beneficial for mental health. In fact, regular exercise is associated with lower symptoms of anxiety, depression, Parkinson’s disease and other common mental health or neurological problems. Consistent exercise is also linked to better cognitive performance, improved mood, lower stress and higher self-esteem.

Now that the weather is getting nicer, people are more inclined to engage in outdoor activities such as running, cycling or hiking. Regular exercise is a great idea whether or not you are a cannabis user. But if you are, your favorite cannabis product can help you get even more enjoyment from it.

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References:

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/20/well/move/runners-high-marijuana-pot-sports-exercise-weed.html

https://today.wayne.edu/news/2022/01/03/the-runners-high-may-result-from-molecules-called-cannabinoids-the-bodys-own-version-of-thc-and-cbd-46709

https://www.colorado.edu/today/2021/11/29/new-take-runners-high-study-explores-how-marijuana-affects-workouts