The combination of working out while high on cannabis has become a growing trend among fitness enthusiasts and recreational cannabis users. Whether you’re considering it for the relaxation effects or the potential for improved concentration, you may be wondering: Does cannabis improve exercise performance? Or, more importantly, is it safe to exercise while high?
In this article, we’ll explore the effects of cannabis on exercise performance, how to optimize the benefits of cannabis and fitness, and best practices for working out while high. We’ll also answer the burning question: Is it worth it?
What are the benefits of working out while high?
When combining cannabis and exercise, users often report mixed results. While cannabis is not a “performance-enhancing drug,” its effects can still affect your workout in interesting ways. Let’s break down some of the potential benefits:
Workout & Chill
Many people find that the benefits of cannabis and fitness extend to mental relaxation. The calming effects of cannabis can help reduce pre-workout anxiety and make it easier to get into the zone. Working out under the influence of cannabis can allow you to focus more intently on your workout, especially if you’re doing more mindful or yoga-based exercises.
But what if you’re lifting weights or running? Can marijuana and high-intensity exercise performance coexist?
Rest & Recover
One of the most notable workout benefits of cannabis is its ability to aid in muscle recovery. After an intense workout, cannabis-especially CBD often praised for its ability to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. Using cannabis for post-workout recovery can help you feel better the next day, allowing you to return to the gym sooner.
Motivate & dominate
Used properly, cannabis can be a source of exercise motivation. THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, can increase creativity, helping you get through those last few reps or try a new exercise routine. Some users report feeling more enthusiastic about their workouts while high on cannabis, which could make it easier to stay committed to your fitness goals.
But here’s a thought: does cannabis help you push your limits, or does it slow you down? Let’s dive into some potential downsides.
Is it better to use weed before or after the gym?
Now let’s talk about timing. Is it better to consume cannabis before or after a workout? The answer depends on your personal fitness goals and how you respond to cannabis.
Weed before a workout
Using cannabis before a workout is a strategy many athletes use to improve focus and create a sense of calm. Cannabis and focus during training can be particularly beneficial for activities that require mental clarity, such as yoga or cycling. For more intense exercise, however, cannabis may impair coordination and reduce reaction time, making it risky for weightlifting or sprinting.
Weed after a workout
Many prefer to use cannabis after a workout to aid in recovery. The calming and anti-inflammatory effects of cannabis can help reduce soreness and inflammation after exercise. CBD for soreness is particularly popular, as it does not produce the “high” associated with THC, but still offers significant benefits for recovery.
Relax with Cannabis smoking after workouts
After an intense session at the gym, smoking cannabis after a workout can be an excellent way to relax. The relaxation provided by cannabis helps you de-stress and recover both physically and mentally. For some, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the evening, helping them sleep better and recover more effectively.
Study: Cannabis can make exercise more fun, but it’s not a performance enhancer
Recent studies suggest that while cannabis may make exercise more enjoyable, it is not a performance enhancer. A first-of-its-kind study conducted by researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder examined the effects of cannabis on athletic performance.
A First-of-a-Kind study
The study showed that cannabis could increase the enjoyment of exercise, but did not significantly improve exercise performance. The participants who used cannabis before exercise did not show improved endurance, strength or endurance compared to those who exercised without cannabis.
“Not a Performance-Enhancing drug”
This brings us to a key point: Is cannabis good for exercise motivation? While cannabis may improve concentration for some, it’s clear that it doesn’t improve physical performance in the traditional sense of endurance or strength. It’s more about creating a fun, engaging environment that encourages you to keep moving.
A Different Kind of Runner’s High
While the runner’s high produced by exercise is a real phenomenon, cannabis produces a different kind of high that may or may not contribute to improved exercise performance. This is worth considering if you are looking for peak athletic performance rather than just a more enjoyable workout.
Here’s why exercising while high is probably a bad idea
Despite the benefits of training high, there are several reasons why it may not be the best choice for everyone.
Cardiovascular health and marijuana
Exercising while under the influence of cannabis may pose a risk to cardiovascular health. Cannabis can affect heart rate and blood pressure, and when combined with strenuous exercise, it can put extra stress on the heart. This is one of the main reasons why exercising while high is not recommended for people with pre-existing heart conditions.
Other considerations
- Reaction Time: Cannabis can impair motor skills and coordination, increasing the risk of injury while performing exercises, especially high-impact or strength-based routines.
- Focus: While cannabis can enhance focus for some, it can impair attention and focus for others, making it hard to track progress or execute movements correctly.
- Breathing: Some users experience shallow breathing while high, which could affect performance during cardio-based exercises.
A quick take on Cannabis and its effects
Cannabis has two main active ingredients: THC and CBD. Both have unique effects on the body and mind that can affect exercise in different ways.
What are the components of Cannabis?
- THC is the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” feeling.
- CBD is non-psychoactive and is commonly used for pain relief and inflammation.
What are the Short-Term effects of Cannabis?
- Increased heart rate
- Euphoria and relaxation
- Altered perception of time
What are the Long-Term effects of Cannabis?
- Dependence
- Respiratory problems
- Cognitive impacts (especially for younger users)
Is Cannabis legal?
The legality of cannabis varies depending on where you live. Be sure to check your local laws before incorporating cannabis into your fitness routine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, exercising while high can offer some benefits, especially in terms of relaxation, focus, and recovery. However, the risks involved – such as impaired coordination, cardiovascular stress, and the potential for injury – should not be underestimated. If you choose to exercise with cannabis, it’s important to do so with caution and proper precautions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best exercise to do while high?
For a relaxed experience, yoga or light stretching exercises are ideal. Cannabis and exercise may work well for these low-impact activities as they enhance mental clarity and relaxation.
Is it bad to work out after smoking?
It depends on how your body reacts to cannabis. For some, it may help with post-workout recovery, but for others, it could impair coordination and focus.
Is it safe to work out on edibles?
Edibles can have a delayed effect, which could lead to impaired judgment during your workout. It’s important to start with a small dose and wait for the effects to set in before engaging in strenuous activity.
Do you burn more calories when working out high?
There is no significant evidence that working out while high leads to burning more calories, but it may make you feel more motivated to push through your workout.
Is it OK to lift while high?
Lifting weights while high can impair coordination, which could increase the risk of injury. If you choose to lift, ensure you have proper technique and start with lighter weights.
Does exercise affect your height?
Yes, exercise can intensify or alter your height depending on how your body reacts to the combination of physical activity and cannabis.
How high is too high when working out?
If you feel impaired in your coordination, judgment, or breathing, it’s a sign that you might be too high to work out safely.
How to stay fit as a stoner?
Incorporate regular cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises into your routine. You can also experiment with cannabis workout benefits like improved focus and relaxation to keep you motivated.