Runner's High

Every runner knows the feeling. That euphoric, almost meditative state where movement feels effortless, pain fades into the background, and you become fully in sync with your breath and the rhythm of the run. This is the runner’s high—and for years, people thought it was all about endorphins.

Turns out, that’s not the full story. New research shows it’s actually your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) that makes running feel good.

A recent study found that some mice were so wired for movement that they literally chose running over eating chocolate. Why? Because their ECS was firing. Meanwhile, mice without a strong ECS? They had zero motivation to run—but still wanted the chocolate.

This explains why some people crave running while others struggle to enjoy it. It all comes down to how well your ECS is activated. Since THC works with the same receptors responsible for runner’s high, microdosing before a run can help spark that natural motivation, make movement feel smoother, and help you push further.

And when you pair THC with functional mushrooms and adaptogens like Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane, and yerba mate? You’re unlocking your body’s natural ability to go harder, feel better, and stay in the zone longer.

Why THC and Functional Ingredients Work for Runners

Microdosing THC and functional mushrooms isn’t about getting high—it’s about locking in and optimizing physical performance. We’re all trying to feel better, take care of ourselves, and find our edge. 

With this in mind, RIVR was formulated for that exact journey. 

• THC (Microdosed, 5mg or less): Enhances mood, endurance, and pain perception without impairment. Studies suggest low-dose THC helps with breath control, pain management, and extending stamina. It can also help you push past the resistance of ‘getting started’ and help you find that inkling of will power to put your shoes on and get moving.

• Cordyceps: Boosts oxygen efficiency, lung capacity, and sustained energy output. This functional mushroom is trusted by endurance athletes to push past fatigue. It’s also an incredible ally in post-run recovery, keeping aches and pains to a minimum while your muscles and joints restore.

• Lion’s Mane: Sharpens focus and mental clarity. Running is as much a mental challenge as a physical one—Lion’s Mane keeps distractions at bay and motivation high. When you use Lion’s Mane consistently, you can literally grow new brain cells. Imagine being able to strengthen your brain to help you accomplish hard things and turn them into achievable goals that make you feel better in your body and mind.

• Yerba Mate: Delivers a steady, jitter-free energy boost. Unlike coffee, yerba mate keeps energy levels stable with no crash. We’re talking about 100mg of naturally-derived caffeine. Enough to give you a little oomph, but not so much that you get a pit in your stomach, or get a dehydration headache.

• Reishi: Aid in post-run recovery, helping the body manage stress, reduce inflammation, and restore balance. Running can be hard on the body, especially at first. Use these allies to help ease the recovery process so you aren’t tempted to give up when you’re feeling sore.

More runners are turning to THC, functional mushrooms, and plant-based energy sources to enhance performance the natural way.

 

How to Microdose with RIVR for Running and Recovery

Microdosing THC for athletic performance is highly personal, but for runners looking to integrate it into their training, timing and formulation matter.

Pre-Run: Energy and Focus

• Drink Adventure (5mg THC + yerba mate, Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps) 30–60 minutes before a run.

• Helps kickstart mental clarity, steady energy, and breath control.

• THC + functional mushrooms help prime the ECS, making the flow state easier to access.

Post-Run: Restoration

• Drink Serene (5mg THC, reishi, ashwagandha, lavender) post-run.

• Helps reduce inflammation, ease muscle tension, and bring the body back to balance.

• Adaptogens support the nervous system, ensuring a smoother recovery without heavy sedation.

By strategically microdosing throughout the run cycle, athletes can extend their endurance, enhance their experience, and recover more efficiently.

Your Brain Was Built to Run

For years, cannabis was seen as a substance that slowed you down. But science and real-world applications are proving otherwise.

Runners across the world—including those in Paramount Running’s journey through The Speed Project—are beginning to recognize cannabis not just as a recovery tool, but as a performance enhancer when used intentionally.

The endocannabinoid system is built for movement. THC, functional mushrooms, and adaptogens don’t disrupt the process—they elevate it.

Runner’s high, but better.