The benefits of exercise on weight loss, muscle strength, cardiovascular health, sleep, and bone health have been known for some time. What is becoming more apparent are the benefits resistance training and cardio have on brain health, both at pathophysiological and psychopathological level. Brain related conditions like cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s, dementia, depression, and anxiety have all been shown to be positively managed with moderate physical exercise. Recent data shows endurance exercise activates the endocannabinoid system (same system cannabis activates) and is thought to contribute to the “runners “high”; activation of this system decreases pain sensation and alters emotional and cognitive processes.
Scientific data on cannabis and athletic performance is not well developed. Many stereotypes involving cannabis use and exercise are associated with lack of motivation, sedation, and weight gain. Yet, cannabis use is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency being considered as a “sports enhancement”? Many athletes are implementing cannabis into their daily training regimes, why? There currently is no research supporting cannabis as a sport enhancing drug. Some evidence from consumer reports shows cannabis has the potential to have beneficial effects on exercise motivation and decrease physical discomfort.
But, can cannabis help during or before a workout?
Certainly, THC and/or CBD used topically, orally, or inhaled before, during, and after a workout can potentially diminish some difficulties from occurring. Reported effects of CBD such as reduced anxiety, improved focus and motivation, and pain relief could be channeled into exercise. One study found that cannabis users who made cannabis part of their workout routine worked out on average 43 minutes more per week than cannabis users who did not. With exercise known to activate the endocannabinoid system, using Phyto-cannabinoids as a supplement to sort of “start with a runner’s high”, seems intuitively advantageous. Knowing that something is “working on your side” can be a good motivator.
THC has been shown to cause bronchodilation, so perhaps this could boost performance in cardio sessions. Although this should probably be left for the experienced user, as THC can cause coordination issues. If THC inhalation is chosen “pre-workout”, a vaporizer is advised to minimize other harmful chemicals that come with burning dry flower, which could hurt cardiovascular performance. Sativa dominant strains with limonene and pinene terpenes could be a great option here. These terpenes offer uplifting, energizing, and focusing effects. For post workout, strains with terpenes myrcene and caryophyllene can be used for their muscle relaxing, analgesic, and sedative effects.
I personally find cannabis connects me both mentally and emotionally for any challenge in my workouts. I have utilized THC oil for long distance running and have witnessed increased endurance and decreased physical discomforts in both muscle and joint pain. Without it, I am shutting down physically and mentally around 5kms but can easily run 10kms with. I use a 1:1 (THC and CBD) topical cream application to sore muscles and joints after I have had a relaxing bath with my CBD bath bomb in the evening. The topical cream and the bath bomb carry over pain relief well into the next day.
“I have utilized cannabis in the form of THC oil spray for pre-workout. Solei Gather spray – also known as the strain Jack Herer (Sativa THC) – allows me to feel uplifted and focused on pushing myself to my best ability during my workout. In the absence of the spray, I would not be motivated to push myself to be active. Being a strain high in Myrcene and Pinene, it’s the perfect strain for muscle relaxation and inflammation. Typically, when feeling sore the following day, a dose of Dosecann CBD orange oil helps soothe any tension or discomfort to my muscles and joints.” – Vanessa H., CHC Cannabis Therapy Educator.
Exercise and cannabis is not without risk, as muscle coordination and short term memory can be affected by THC specifically. THC also carries with it an increased risk of heart attack one hour after consuming, anyone with cardiac conditions should be cautious.
Ultimately, exercising with cannabis, like cannabis use itself is a personal journey. Finding a routine that is enjoyable, challenging, and convenient enough to complete consistently is important. Cannabis for many is a quality-of-life enhancer and should be given a fair consideration by anyone wanting to enhance their own exercise routine, and in-turn overall quality of life.