Cannabis and Running: Does Lighting Up Help or Hurt Your Performance?
Some Olympic sprinters use cannabis to relax after intense training. Ultramarathon runners? They sometimes turn to it to find that elusive “flow state” on grueling trails. But what about the rest of us? Should weed have a place in your running routine? And is it actually a good idea—or a bad one—to get high before heading out for a jog?
With cannabis becoming legal in more places around the world—from much of the U.S. to Canada and parts of Europe—the stigma is starting to fade. For many, weed is no longer just about getting high; it’s about wellness, recovery, and even performance. Still, the old “lazy stoner” stereotype hasn’t completely disappeared.
That image, though, is starting to crack—thanks in part to runners who love weed. These aren’t couch-locked potheads. They’re disciplined, driven people who voluntarily wake up early to chase miles, rain or shine. And some of them swear by cannabis as a part of their training.
So, does weed actually help with running, or does it hold you back? Is it enhancing performance or just making the run feel better (or worse)? Let’s dive into what the science and real-life runners have to say about getting high and hitting the trail.
Cannabis and Running: What Does the Science Actually Say?
We spend a lot of time—and money—trying to figure out how to get better, faster, and stronger. From elite athletes chasing medals to everyday runners pushing personal limits, performance matters. But when it comes to cannabis and Running athletic performance, the research is still in its early days.
Right now, there’s no clear answer on whether weed gives you an edge or holds you back. Some early studies suggest that THC (the part of cannabis that gets you high) might mess with heart function and cardiovascular balance—not exactly ideal when you’re mid-run. On the flip side, CBD (the non-psychoactive part) seems more promising. It might help with better sleep and reduce aches or soreness—both key when recovery is just as important as the workout itself.
Runner’s High or Weed High? Turns Out, They’re Not So Different
It might sound strange at first, but a lot of runners say getting high from cannabis and running feels a lot like the high they get from running. And the science? It actually backs that up.
If you’ve ever gone for a run and suddenly hit that moment where everything just clicks—your breath settles, the pain fades, and you feel kind of euphoric—you’ve likely felt what’s called a “runner’s high.” For a long time, people thought it was just endorphins doing their thing. But now we know that’s only part of the story.
Your body also makes something called endocannabinoids—natural compounds that activate the same system in your body that cannabis does. One of them is called anandamide, nicknamed the “bliss molecule.” It helps lift your mood, ease pain, and create that peaceful, almost floaty feeling after a tough workout. Sound familiar?
Here’s where it gets cool: THC, the main compound in cannabis, looks and acts a lot like anandamide in your brain. So when you smoke or consume cannabis, it can create a mental and physical state that’s surprisingly close to what you feel during a runner’s high.
That’s why some runners swear by a little cannabis before or after their workouts—and why some cannabis and running users unexpectedly fall in love with running. They might seem like totally different worlds, but they both tap into the same natural system in your body that makes you feel good, balanced, and in the moment.
Legal Weed and Running: Is Access Making a Difference?
Runners around the world are turning to cannabis—some as part of their training routine, others simply as a way to unwind. But depending on where you live, getting your hands on quality cannabis and running can be a whole lot easier. Take the United States and Canada, for example. Thanks to legalization, runners in these countries can walk into a dispensary and choose from a wide range of top-shelf products designed for everything from relaxation to recovery.
Let’s zoom in on the U.S. for a moment. Nearly 50 million Americans run regularly. Coincidentally—or maybe not—about the same number of people used cannabis at least once in 2019. Safe to say, there’s some serious overlap happening between these two communities.
And it’s not just weekend joggers lighting up. Cannabis use is popping up across all kinds of running circles—from high-level sprinters to ultramarathoners who embrace the herb as part of a more counter-culture, endurance-focused lifestyle. For some, it’s about managing pain, entering a flow state, or just making the miles feel a bit smoother.
But it raises an important question: Does using cannabis and running actually help runners perform better? Or could it be holding them back—especially when it comes to lung health and endurance?
Are Pro Runners Actually Using Weed?
If you’re wondering whether the pros are lighting up, the answer is yes—some of them are. Take Michael Phelps, the guy with 28 Olympic medals. If smoking weed was messing with his performance, do you really think he’d keep doing it?
And then there’s Sha’Carri Richardson. She made headlines when she got banned from the Tokyo Olympics for testing positive for THC, but she’s still one of the fastest sprinters out there—and she’s been pretty open about her cannabis use.
Marathon runners, too, are starting to speak up about how weed fits into their training and recovery. It’s not just about getting high—it’s about managing pain, calming nerves, or finding focus.
So yeah, cannabis isn’t just for weekend warriors; some elite athletes are making it part of their game plan.
Why Some Runners Like to Hit the Trail High
Science hasn’t quite caught up yet when it comes to cannabis and running, but a lot of casual joggers, amateur runners, and even some pros are already using weed—and they swear it helps. Before we get into the downsides, here are a few reasons why people say it works for them:
- Better Focus
For some folks, smoking weed before a run helps them tune out distractions and really dial in on what they’re doing. Whether it’s a race or just training, that extra focus can make a big difference. - Easier to Find the “Flow”
You know that feeling when you’re running and everything else just disappears—the mind is clear, the body moves effortlessly? That’s called the flow state. Many runners say weed helps them slide into that zone faster and stay there longer. - Stress Be Gone
Pre-run nerves and stress are real, and they can mess with your muscles and energy. Some runners use cannabis strains that calm their anxiety and help them relax, so they can hit their best without the jitters.
The Not-So-Great Side of Running While High
Running after smoking weed might sound like a cool idea, and sure, it can have some benefits. But before you decide to puff up before your next run, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
- You Might Lose Some Coordination
When you’re high, especially if you’ve had a lot, your motor skills can take a hit. Running isn’t just putting one foot in front of the other—it needs your body and brain to work together perfectly. Sprinting, or running on tricky trails with rocks and roots, needs sharp coordination. Being a little off could mean a stumble—or worse. - Dry Mouth and the Munchies Are Real
Weed can dry out your mouth, which feels pretty annoying when you’re running and breathing hard. Plus, the munchies might hit you just when you need to stay focused on your nutrition, not on snacking every five minutes. - Smoking Isn’t Great for Your Lungs
Even though there are other ways to enjoy cannabis, smoking is still super common. The truth is, smoking can irritate your lungs, cause inflammation, and make it harder to breathe deeply—definitely not ideal when you’re trying to run your best. So, hitting a joint or a bong right before your workout probably isn’t a smart move.
Running and Smoking: How to Make It Work for You
If you’re thinking about mixing cannabis with your running—whether it’s training or a race—here are some simple tips to keep things smooth and enjoyable.
Before You Head Out
- Start Small and Take It Easy
Don’t go all in right away. Try a tiny bit of oil or just a hit or two from your vape before you hit the road. It’s way better to feel a little less high than planned than to get too baked and end up ditching your run. You can always work your way up over time. - Get Your Stuff Ready First
Weed can make you forgetful, so get everything packed and ready before you take that first puff—water, snacks, phone, headphones—so you don’t have to worry about it later. - Pick the Right Strain
Avoid super strong stuff at the start. Begin with something mild or medium-strength and see how it feels. Try different strains too—some might help focus, others might relax you.
After You Finish
Your cannabis routine doesn’t have to stop when your run ends.
- Use Weed to Chill Out
After a tough run, your body might be wiped but your mind still buzzing. Cannabis can help you relax, ease sore muscles, and calm your thoughts—perfect for that post-run wind-down. - Get Your Appetite Going
You’ll need to refuel, especially with protein. Sometimes it’s hard to eat right after running, but cannabis can help kickstart your appetite when you need it most. - Hydrate and Shower First
Don’t light up immediately after running. Take a moment to drink water and hop in the shower—then enjoy your high feeling fresh and relaxed.
Is It Safe to Smoke Weed Before Running?
Honestly, it’s not the same for everyone. THC can speed up your heart rate and raise your blood pressure, which might be risky depending on your health. If you’ve got any health issues or take meds, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before mixing weed and running—yeah, even if it feels a little weird. Better safe than sorry!
Cannabis and Running: Could They Be a Good Match?
The science isn’t totally clear yet on whether cannabis actually helps you run better. But lots of elite athletes still use it. For most everyday runners, though, it’s less about breaking records and more about shaking off stress and just enjoying the run. Adding a bit of weed can make that experience even more enjoyable. So, what do you think? Would you try using cannabis before, during, or after your run?
Disclaimer:
This content is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources.
