# The runner’s high was attributed to endorphins for decades, > **Author:** Benjamin Caplan, MD (ABFM Board Certified, MA Lic. #240562, NPI: 1962722637) > **Publisher:** CED Clinic (https://cedclinic.com) > **Canonical URL:** https://cedclinic.com/the-runners-high-was-attributed-to-endorphins-for-decades-but-circulating/ > **Published:** 2026-08-26T07:17:26-04:00 | **Last Modified / Clinically Audited:** 2026-09-28T10:46:50-04:00 > **Clinical Summary:** Discover how the endocannabinoid system, not endorphins, may be responsible for the runner's high, offering new insights into exercise-induced euphoria. --- ✦ New CED Clinical Relevance #77 Strong Clinical Relevance High-quality evidence with meaningful patient or clinical significance. NeurologyAnxiety[Mental Health](https://cedclinic.com/cannabis-psychiatric-research-findings-depression-anxiety/)ResearchPolicySafetyPain Why This Matters This article matters for clinicians and their patients as it sheds light on the misconception about the “runner’s high” being solely attributed to endorphins. The discovery of the [endocannabinoid system](https://cedclinic.com/endocannabinoid-system-fear-extinction/) in the 1990s suggests that cannabinoids may also play a significant role in this phenomenon, which could potentially influence treatment strategies and understanding of exercise-induced euphoria in [clinical practice](https://cedclinic.com/cannabis-reproductive-health-women-clinical-evidence/). Clinical Summary In contrast to the long-held belief that the “runner’s high” is caused by endorphins, a study suggests that the [endocannabinoid system](https://cedclinic.com/endocannabinoid-system-fear-extinction/) may play a significant role. This system was not discovered until the 1990s, and its potential involvement in exercise-induced euphoria challenges the traditional understanding of this phenomenon. Clinical takeaway: Understanding the role of the [endocannabinoid system](https://cedclinic.com/endocannabinoid-system-fear-extinction/) in exercise could potentially lead to new approaches for managing pain and [mood disorders](https://cedclinic.com/dietary-influences-adolescent-mental-health/) associated with physical activity. Dr. Caplan’s Take “Indeed, the recent findings on the role of the [endocannabinoid system](https://cedclinic.com/endocannabinoid-system-fear-extinction/) in ‘the runner’s high’ offer a nuanced perspective that challenges our long-held beliefs. As we continue to explore this fascinating area, it’s crucial to remember that while these results are promising, they require further validation and replication in human studies before we can fully integrate them into [clinical practice](https://cedclinic.com/cannabis-reproductive-health-women-clinical-evidence/).” Clinical Perspective 🏃‍♂️ A new perspective on the “runner’s high” emerges as research suggests that endorphins may not be solely responsible for the euphoric sensation experienced during exercise. The endocannabinoid system, discovered in the 1990s, is now implicated in this phenomenon. While the exact mechanisms are still being elucidated, it’s clear that the endocannabinoid system plays a significant role in modulating pain and [reward pathways](https://cedclinic.com/glp-1-receptor-agonists-addiction-benefits/) during physical activity. Clinically, understanding the involvement of the endocannabinoid system may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for managing exercise-induced pain and enhancing the overall exercise experience. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the complex interplay between multiple neurotransmitter systems in this context necessitates further research to fully appreciate its implications for [clinical practice](https://cedclinic.com/cannabis-reproductive-health-women-clinical-evidence/). 💬 Join the Conversation Have a question about how this applies to your situation? [Ask Dr. Caplan →](https://benjamincaplan.com/ask-dr-caplan) Want to discuss this topic with other patients and caregivers? [Join the forum discussion →](https://cedclinic.com/interact/discussion-forums/forum/medical-illness/) Have thoughts on this? 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