Running as a Substance-Free Path to Support Addiction Recovery

Addiction remains a significant public health challenge, affecting approximately 1 in 5 Canadians over their lifetime. The opioid crisis exemplifies how substance dependence can lead to devastating social impacts, including overdose deaths and strained communities. Traditional treatments often focus on abstinence, but relapse remains common, and some approaches, like forced treatment, have limited success.

Emerging research suggests that physical activities like running may offer valuable support in addiction recovery. Running is a pleasure that does not involve substances and can help improve mood, reduce cravings, and address mental health issues—factors that contribute to relapse prevention. While most studies have examined treadmill use within clinical settings, there is growing interest in understanding how running can aid people’s recovery over time, beyond structured treatment programs.

To explore this, researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 11 adults in Vancouver who had experienced addiction and used running as part of their recovery journey. Participants, mostly in their 30s to 50s, identified alcohol as their primary substance and had been in recovery for over three years. The interviews aimed to understand how running influenced their transition from substance use to a healthier, substance-free life.

Findings reveal that the process of change is nonlinear. Initially, many participants were motivated by weight loss goals rather than recovery. They continued substance use during early training but gradually, as they achieved longer, more challenging runs, their focus shifted. The structured nature of running, combined with personal and environmental sensations—such as heartbeat and natural sounds—helped participants develop a new relationship with their bodies. Over time, their lives became more organized around running, which eased substance cravings and fostered hope.

Community played a vital role. Running groups provided social support without the stigma associated with addiction, allowing participants to build meaningful relationships at their own pace. Many became active members of these groups, participating in races, volunteering, or coaching, which reinforced discipline and social connection.

Participants also shared that childhood experiences with sport influenced their recovery. For some, running rekindled joy in movement that had been interrupted during adolescence. These experiences motivated them to reclaim positive bodily sensations and envision a different, healthier future.

Overall, the study highlights that running facilitates psychological and social recovery processes, often without requiring complete abstinence from substances. It offers a hopeful, community-based approach that leverages the intrinsic joy of movement and the support of shared goals. These insights point toward the potential of integrating physical activity into broader addiction treatment and recovery programs.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-substance-free-pleasure-addiction-recovery.html