As the pursuit of holistic well-being continues to evolve, many individuals are blending traditional forms of self-care with more unconventional approaches. For some, this means pairing their favorite workout with a little help from cannabis. Whether one’s preferred movement involves an early morning jog, a rigorous gym session, or a calming yoga practice, the idea of working out while high is steadily gaining traction particularly in regions where recreational marijuana use has been legalized. Interestingly, a growing body of anecdotal evidence and preliminary research suggests that cannabis may actually complement the exercise experience in ways that are both physical and psychological.
Cannabis and Inflammation: A Potential Post-Workout Aid
According to Dr. Gary Starr, MD, medical director at FOCUS, an international non-profit dedicated to developing cannabis quality standards, marijuana has shown potential in reducing post-workout inflammation. This could prove particularly beneficial following strenuous training sessions, during which the body typically experiences micro-tears in muscle fibers that lead to soreness. While it should be noted that cannabis is unlikely to directly enhance athletic performance—at least from a physiological standpoint—its influence on mental engagement during workouts could be noteworthy.
It May Not Make You Stronger, But It Might Make You Show Up
A 2017 study featured in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport emphasized that cannabis may not necessarily boost physical capacity, but it may serve as a psychological tool for those who struggle with motivation or consistency. This aspect alone is compelling for individuals who find the emotional labor of starting and maintaining a workout regimen to be the most daunting part of the process.
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Calming the Mind: A Yogic Perspective
For yoga teacher, body positivity advocate, and writer Jessamyn Stanley, incorporating cannabis into her fitness routine has been a game-changer. “Using weed before a workout is a great way to get out of your head about what’s to come,” she explains. Whether someone is new to working out or has simply hit a motivational plateau, mental fatigue can be just as taxing as physical exhaustion. Over time, this emotional wear and tear can create a cycle of avoidance, ultimately turning once-enjoyable physical activities into dreaded tasks.
How Perception Shapes Performance
This idea is supported by findings in the journal Sports Medicine, which reported in 2017 that perceived difficulty during a workout plays a major role in mental fatigue. When a workout feels excessively challenging, participants are more likely to experience burnout, making it tougher to stay consistent over the long term. In Stanley’s case, using cannabis before her workouts actually flips this narrative. “Instead of wanting the workout to end, I have to remind myself to stop,” she notes.
Survey Says: Most People Enjoy Working Out While High
A separate survey conducted by Nature echoed these experiences on a broader scale. When over 600 individuals living in states where recreational cannabis is permitted were surveyed, around 70% stated that consuming cannabis in tandem with exercise made the experience more enjoyable. Even more intriguing was the observation that cannabis users tended to spend more time working out compared to those who didn’t pair the two activities.
The Science Is Still Catching Up
Dr. Starr points out that while this data is encouraging, much of the existing research is observational and conducted on a relatively small scale. “At this point in time, almost all research into the relationship between marijuana and exercise performance is observational and small,” he explains. In other words, while the anecdotal evidence is mounting, large-scale, peer-reviewed studies are still lacking.
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Mood Enhancement and Mindful Movement
That said, the known mood-enhancing effects of cannabis may provide short-term benefits that help individuals approach fitness with renewed enthusiasm. By creating a sense of presence and bodily awareness, cannabis might make it easier to tap into the joy of movement, regardless of whether one’s workout involves weightlifting, cardio, or mindful stretching.
Not Without Risks: Elevated Heart Rate and Safety Concerns
However, not all effects are universally positive. The same Nature survey revealed that approximately 40% of cannabis-using exercisers reported experiencing an elevated heart rate or feeling too high to safely complete their workout. This is not entirely surprising, as marijuana is known to induce tachycardia, or increased heart rate. Dr. Starr cautions that for individuals with existing heart conditions or irregular heart rhythms, cannabis use—especially when paired with physical exertion—may heighten the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Hydration and Metabolism: Don’t Forget the Water
There’s also the matter of hydration. According to Meryl Montgomery, co-founder of the cannabis wellness brand Barbari, the presence of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) accelerates glucose metabolism. As a result, the body may require more water than usual to maintain balance. “Because THC puts your glucose metabolism into double-time, it’s important to hydrate frequently and often with good old H2O,” Montgomery advises.
CBD vs. THC: Finding Your Balance
Determining the right dosage is equally crucial. Kendra Freeman, president of business and product development at Mendi a CBD wellness company aimed at athletes emphasizes the importance of starting slow and learning how one’s body responds. Those who are new to THC may want to explore the benefits of incorporating CBD (cannabidiol), which is non-intoxicating but still offers potential anti-inflammatory and anxiety-reducing effects. According to Freeman, combining THC and CBD can offer a more balanced experience, making it easier to focus and perform without feeling overly euphoric or mentally foggy.
Start Low, Go Slow, and Listen to Your Body
For those considering adding cannabis into their fitness regimen, a cautious and intentional approach is advised. Begin with a minimal dose, and remain mindful of the type and intensity of the exercise being performed. While a gentle yoga class might pair well with a small amount of THC, a high-intensity training session or long-distance run might demand a clearer headspace. Listening to one’s body is critical in navigating this experience safely and effectively.
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A Note on Legal and Medical Considerations
In terms of legal and medical considerations, readers should be aware that regulations governing cannabis, hemp, and CBD continue to shift across jurisdictions. Furthermore, scientific understanding of these substances particularly in relation to exercise is still emerging. Therefore, this information should not be interpreted as medical or legal advice. Consultation with a healthcare provider is strongly recommended before initiating any new substance or supplement, especially one that could impact cardiovascular, respiratory, or psychological health.
The Future of Fitness and Cannabis
Ultimately, the intersection of cannabis and exercise is an evolving frontier in the world of wellness. While research continues to catch up with consumer trends, the lived experiences of athletes, yogis, and fitness enthusiasts are already helping to reshape the narrative. For some, cannabis serves as a gateway—not just to a higher state of mind, but to a more joyful and sustainable relationship with movement itself.
