Cannabinoids and Exercise – Benefits and Risks

Getting high before exercising can have benefits. I know this from personal experience CBD helps exercise recovery. Others have also reported that the use of cannabis helps, not hinders, fitness activities. The use of cannabis has been associated with a healthier metabolism and, interestingly, increased lung capacity. In fact, according to the United States Anti-Doping Agency, cannabis is a banned substance for competitive athletes exactly because it has “the potential to enhance” performance. Performance is enhanced because cannabis promotes an elevated mood, muscle relaxation, pain and fatigue reduction, and increased focus.

Cannabinoids have the same mood-elevating function as the endorphins that are released with vigorous exercise. The anti-doping rules apply to competitive athletes. But, anyone can experience these positive effects with their fitness program as using cannabis mindfully with fitness programs, at any level, will elevate mood, enhance muscle relaxation, reduce pain and fatigue and increase focus.

However, using cannabis with an exercise program can have negative consequences if not used judiciously. It can cause one to ignore pain and fatigue and push past one’s limits, causing injury. Thus, it would seem that one must remain mindful that the benefits of cannabis with exercise are dose-dependent – smaller doses should prevent one from exceeding one’s limits while providing the benefits of an elevated mood, muscle relaxation, pain and fatigue regulation and a greater ability to focus. I like to use a little Sativa before exercise – just enough to feel a slightly elevated mood and a bright feeling of well-being and energy – no more. I avoid then heavy Indica-dominant strains before exercising as those can make me feel a little slowed; definitely not a feeling compatible with a satisfying workout. I enjoy my workouts after consuming cannabis and feel energized, rather than exhausted, upon completing them. Even without THC, cannabis can be a beneficial addition to a CBD exercise recovery regimen. After exercise, I like to apply CBD cream. This CBD cream is a potent reliever of pain and soreness. It eases and prevents the joint and muscle pain and inflammation I once had in workout recovery. Whether lemongrass or lavender, this cream is the perfect ending to a satisfying workout.