We know cannabis is stereotypically associated with binge-watching Netflix and eating snacks, but is there a connection between cannabis and working out?
With the variety of edible products available on the market, consuming provides a smoke-free alternative. So, do people really find that consuming cannabis helps with working out? It depends on who you talk to.
While we are not allowed to endorse cannabis and exercise, we can point to a recent study conducted by the University of Colorado which found that 80% of participants who use cannabis often mix it with exercise.
Why could it be beneficial?
A strong indica may not be of much help if your intent is to get on those shoes and go for a run, but a sativa strain may cause you to experience a “get up and go” attitude. For someone who needs a bit of motivation to get moving, this could be beneficial. That being said, official government health bodies are not ready to make a conclusive judgment on cannabis’s efficacy as a workout supplement. They feel that we need more research to be conducted into how effective THC and CBD are in terms of boosting energy, promoting workout gains, or helping with muscle recovery.
Even just in terms of a reward system, cannabis could be used to help get you moving. Maybe you have an edible at home that you’re waiting to try, but you also want to go to the gym. Some people may find the reward of an edible after a workout to be enough motivation to get their workout done. Some people also say that consuming cannabis before doing a more peaceful exercise regime, like yoga, can help keep your mind clear and be more present during the activity.
Could topicals be the link between cannabis and working out?
Perhaps the most interesting link between cannabis and working out is the addition of topicals to the cannabis market.
Currently, there are cannabis topicals available that are designed for application near muscles and joints. There are also products that contain eucalyptus, which is known to help relieve muscle pain and reduce inflammation. It’s possible that these products could help with recovery after working out, although those claims have yet to be authenticated.
What are the risks?
First and foremost, do not consume cannabis before your workout if you need to drive somewhere. Driving high is illegal, dangerous and not worth it. If you are going to consume cannabis for your workout, it’s best to walk, take public transportation, or exercise at home!
Cannabis products, especially products high in THC, can cause anxiety and drowsiness, and can impair your ability to concentrate and react quickly. It can impair your workout and put you in danger so take a moment to read the full list of effects from Health Canada.
*NOTE: This information is for entertainment purposes only and is not to be used as medical advice. Cannabis affects every person differently and there is no scientific evidence to support a link between cannabis consumption and working out.