Freakonomics Radio 663. Is Weed a Performance-Enhancing Drug?
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Feb 13, 2026 
Angela Bryan, a psychology and neuroscience professor studying cannabis, exercise, and health behavior, and Ricky Williams, former NFL running back turned cannabis advocate, discuss cannabis and athletic life. They explore how cannabinoids affect enjoyment, recovery, and pain, the science behind endocannabinoids and runner’s high, research hurdles, and Ricky’s personal journey with football, testing, retirement, and healing.
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Cannabinoids Drive Runner's High
- Endogenous cannabinoids released during exercise likely cause the runner's high rather than endogenous opioids.
- This explains why exogenous cannabis can amplify exercise pleasure without improving physical output.
Makes Exercise Feel Better, Not Faster
- Cannabis can make exercise feel more enjoyable while objectively reducing speed or increasing exertion.
- Greater enjoyment may boost motivation and long-term exercise adherence despite no direct performance gain.
Users Appear Healthier On Some Metrics
- Epidemiology shows cannabis users often have lower BMI and lower type 2 diabetes rates.
- These population-level associations contradict the stereotypical sedentary 'stoner' image.