Cannabis has a bad reputation for making people lazy and eat unhealthy snacks. While this can be the result for some people, it doesn’t have to be the case, especially with some strains. We are now seeing how cannabis can aid in a person’s fitness journey by improving motivation and aiding in workout recovery.
Unlock your fitness potential with intentional cannabis use.
Beginning Your Fitness Journey with Cannabis
There are several barriers that people face when starting or maintaining a regular fitness routine.
Here are some ways cannabis may help remove some of those barriers. Note, if you are planning to use cannabis before working out, we suggest sticking with CBD, which is non-intoxicating.
For some, cannabis can help with motivation and managing anxiety related to fitness. Cannabis can increase your endorphins similar to what people describe as a ‘runner’s high,’ which can help you get into your workout.
There are numerous reasons why people feel anxious around working out, and cannabis can help manage this anxiety and help you focus on yourself. However, it’s essential to know that cannabis is not a substitute for fitness knowledge. Before working out, ensure you know how to use the equipment properly, so you don’t injure yourself.
For some, using cannabis can make the fitness experience more enjoyable. It can help connect a person to their body. Additionally, it can make a person feel more connected with nature. In light of this, you can be intentional about the types of exercises you engage in while simultaneously consuming cannabis (in small doses).
Which Fitness Activities Pair Well With Cannabis?
Want to feel connected to your body? Consider some yoga or full body stretching. Or get outside and connect with nature; consider consuming cannabis before your next hike and take the time to notice how it impacts your experience.
How Cannabis Can Support Workout Recovery
One of the most significant impacts cannabis can have on a fitness routine is supporting workout recovery.
Cannabis can improve the fitness experience by supporting the management of post-workout aches and pains. This pain is often the result of inflammation in the muscles, joints, and tendons, and cannabis is well established for managing inflammation and pain, a common reason people use cannabis.
What does the research say?
- A 2011 study found that CBD helped reduce inflammatory pain in rats by affecting how pain receptors respond to stimuli.
- A 2016 study at Dalhousie University on rats provided evidence that CBD is effective for arthritis and joint pain by reducing inflammation in the joints.
- Another 2016 study found that the topical application of CBD could relieve pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
- A 2017 study found that CBD might be a safe and valuable treatment for OA joint pain.
Additionally, cannabis can help improve sleep, which is essential for bodies to heal and recover.
How to Use Cannabis for Workout Recovery
Since cannabis can help manage pain and inflammation in the body, it can be helpful to include it as a regular part of your health and wellness routine. Many athletes include CBD cannabis products as a regular part of their routine for the health and fitness benefits without experiencing intoxication.
Consider taking a regular CBD dose before bed to improve sleep and/or first thing in the morning to set intentions for the day.
Some great options are CBD edibles or CBD tinctures. Check out our variety of CBD products, including some of these fantastic products:
- CBD capsules with melatonin for sleep
- CBD honey to sweeten morning coffee, tea, or smoothie
- CBD Boost Tincture for added energy
Then, add additional doses or products as needed to help manage pain and soreness related to workout recovery. A great go-to is cannabis topicals that target pain and inflammation at the source. Learn more about cannabis topicals and how they work.
Active Releaf also has cannabis-infused bath salts. Taking a bath with these is a great way to unwind and relax after a workout.
Can Cannabis Be Used as a Pre-Workout? Using Cannabis Safely
While cannabis may be used as part of your pre-workout routine, it’s essential to ensure you are doing so in a safe manner. Consider sticking to CBD to help with motivation, manage anxiety and prepare the body for recovery without the psychoactive experience associated with THC.
Things to consider to keep yourself safe while working out:
- Ensure you have the right equipment and know how to use it safely.
- Have a workout buddy.
- Engage in activities that are safe with cannabis use. For example, don’t do your biggest lifts.
- Drink lots of water.
- Start with a small dose.
Further Reading
Learn more about using cannabis in professional sports.
