Fitness enthusiasts are always searching for ways to elevate their workouts. From the latest supplements to the best recovery strategies, everyone has their method for improving performance.
But as cannabis becomes more widely accepted, many are asking: can smoking weed help improve your workout?
The relationship between marijuana and exercise is a topic of growing interest, but how does smoking weed actually affect your body during physical activity?
Let’s dive into the potential effects, benefits, risks, and the science behind this combination.
The High Before the Workout: What You Need to Know
Cannabis is well known for its psychoactive effects, primarily from the compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
When consumed, it triggers a release of dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, leading to feelings of euphoria and relaxation.
For some, this “high” can help shift the mindset before a workout, especially for those who feel anxious or stressed about exercising.
Mental Clarity and Focus
Some athletes find that smoking weed before a workout helps them focus, especially during long or repetitive activities like running or cycling.
The calm, focused state that cannabis induces can make the activity feel less daunting, helping you to stay in the zone for longer.
This may improve your mental endurance, as you’re able to block out distractions and engage more fully in your routine.
Dr. Gary Starr, MD, medical director of FOCUS, notes, “Cannabis may help some individuals tap into a focused mindset, particularly for endurance activities where mental stamina is key. It could be a way to improve mental clarity for exercises that don’t require quick reflexes or intense coordination.”
Mood Enhancement
THC’s ability to boost mood is one of the most notable benefits for those who exercise.
The mental high can transform exercise from a chore into something more enjoyable, encouraging a positive attitude towards physical activity.
A relaxed mental state may also help lower the barriers of fear or negativity surrounding exercise, making it easier to dive into an intense session.
As Dr. Starr further explains, “THC stimulates the release of dopamine, which makes activities feel more rewarding and may help individuals enjoy their workouts more. This shift in perception can turn a dreaded task into something exciting.”
Pain Relief and Recovery During Exercise
Another potential benefit of smoking weed before a workout is its pain-relieving effects.
Cannabis has been used for centuries to ease chronic pain, and there’s growing evidence that it may help reduce exercise-induced soreness and muscle tension.
Reducing Muscle Discomfort
Cannabis interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain and inflammation.
As a result, smoking weed before a workout might help dull some of the discomfort that comes with physical activity.
For individuals pushing through intense workouts or lifting heavy weights, this could make it easier to power through without being overwhelmed by pain.
Dr. Gary Starr adds, “Marijuana’s anti-inflammatory effects may play a role in reducing muscle soreness post-workout. It can also help improve pain tolerance during exercise, allowing for longer and more intense sessions.”
Quicker Recovery
There’s also some evidence that cannabis, particularly CBD (cannabidiol), may help speed up the recovery process post-workout.
CBD has been shown to reduce inflammation and may aid in reducing muscle stiffness after exercise, helping the body recover more efficiently.
This makes it an attractive option for those seeking relief from soreness after an intense workout session.
The Risks: What to Consider Before Lighting Up
While smoking weed can have some benefits for workouts, it’s important to recognize that there are risks associated with combining cannabis and exercise.
The effects of marijuana can vary greatly from person to person, and it’s essential to be aware of how your body reacts.
Increased Heart Rate
Cannabis can elevate heart rate, which may be concerning for people with pre-existing heart conditions.
If you’re engaging in high-intensity workouts like sprinting or weightlifting, this increased heart rate could put unnecessary stress on the cardiovascular system, making the exercise potentially unsafe.
Always consider your own health before deciding to mix cannabis with physical activity.
Dr. Michael Harris, a cardiologist, warns, “Cannabis can increase heart rate and cause blood pressure fluctuations.
For individuals with heart conditions, this combination could increase the risk of cardiovascular events during intense physical activity.”
Impaired Coordination
Another consideration is THC’s ability to impair motor coordination and judgment.
While it may help you feel more relaxed, it can also affect your ability to perform precise movements or exercises that require balance, agility, and quick reflexes.
For activities like yoga, weightlifting, or any sport that demands coordination, it’s important to approach with caution.
Dr. Starr also advises, “Cannabis can impair reaction times and coordination, making it dangerous to engage in exercises that require focus and control, such as swimming, weightlifting, or certain sports.”
Dehydration and Hydration
Marijuana has been linked to dry mouth, which could leave you more prone to dehydration during a workout.
THC can also affect how your body metabolizes glucose, making it more important than ever to stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise.
If you’re planning to workout after smoking weed, be sure to drink plenty of water to keep your body functioning optimally.
The Case for CBD: A Non-Psychoactive Alternative
For those who want the benefits of cannabis without the high, CBD offers a non-psychoactive alternative.
Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t induce feelings of euphoria or altered perception, but it may still provide the pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects that are beneficial during a workout.
Pain Relief Without the High
CBD is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help ease soreness and reduce muscle pain.
It may also help alleviate anxiety, making it easier for some people to focus on their workout without feeling mentally distracted.
For athletes and gym-goers who want to avoid the psychoactive effects of THC, CBD-infused products like oils or capsules may be a great way to get the benefits of cannabis while staying clear-headed.
As Kendra Freeman, president of Mendi, a CBD company for athletes, explains, “CBD is a great option for athletes looking to recover from intense training. It doesn’t impair your mind or motor skills like THC can, but it can still provide relief from pain and inflammation, allowing you to keep training harder and longer.”
Should You Smoke Weed Before a Workout?
Ultimately, whether or not you should smoke weed before working out depends on your individual preferences and fitness goals.
While some people find that it boosts their focus, mood, and pain tolerance, others may experience the opposite effects, such as dizziness or lack of coordination.
If you do choose to experiment with cannabis, start with a small dose and see how your body responds.
Conclusion: Use Cannabis Responsibly
Smoking weed before a workout isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and it’s essential to approach it with caution.
While it might help some individuals relax and enjoy their workouts, it’s not without risks, such as impaired coordination and dehydration.
If you decide to try it, ensure you’re in a safe environment, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.
If you’re ever unsure, consulting with a healthcare professional is a great way to make sure you’re making the best choice for your health and fitness goals.
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