Researchers have discovered that the high commonly attributed to endorphins released after running may actually be due to a chemical called endocannibinoids which is similar to the high produced after ingesting marijuana.
One of the researchers from the Central Institute of Mental Health of the University of Heidelberg said “We thus show for the first time to our knowledge that cannabinoid receptors are crucial for main aspects of a runner’s high.”
The study was conducted by having mice run on running wheels, the mouse equivalent of treadmills and testing how they felt afterwards.
The mice came away from the workout with less anxiety and a heightened tolerance of pain.