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Cannabis and Fitness: Can It Enhance Your Workout Routine?

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Marley Medina

May 13, 2024

Cannabis and Fitness: Can It Enhance Your Workout Routine?

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Cannabis has long been known for its medicinal and recreational uses, but its potential benefits in the realm of fitness and exercise are garnering increasing attention. As more states legalize cannabis, athletes and fitness enthusiasts are exploring whether it can enhance their workout routines. NBA Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar revealed that during his time at UCLA, he rarely spent time with anyone who didn't consume cannabis. Similarly, NFL Hall of Famer Calvin Johnson, known as Megatron, asserted that he smoked cannabis before nearly every game. This blog post delves into the current understanding of how cannabis might impact fitness and exercise, examining its potential benefits and risks.

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Cannabis and Pain Relief

One of the most well-documented benefits of cannabis is its ability to alleviate pain. Cannabinoids, particularly THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to reduce pain and inflammation. This interaction is particularly beneficial for athletes dealing with chronic pain or recovering from injuries. For instance, basketball and football athletes often experience joint and muscle pain that can hinder their performance. Cannabis, especially CBD-rich products, can provide relief without the notorious side effects associated with conventional painkillers.

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Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation is a natural response to intense physical activity, but chronic inflammation can hinder performance and recovery. CBD, a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can address chronic inflammation. This is crucial for athletes, as reduced inflammation leads to quicker recovery times and less muscle soreness after workouts. Consequently, CBD enables athletes to maintain a rigorous training schedule without the setbacks caused by prolonged recovery periods. Additionally, topical CBD products are gaining popularity for their targeted relief, helping athletes manage localized inflammation and pain effectively.

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Anxiety and Focus

Exercise often comes with psychological challenges, such as performance anxiety and lack of focus. Cannabis, particularly strains high in CBD, can help reduce anxiety without the psychoactive effects of THC. This can be particularly beneficial in sports requiring high levels of concentration and mental clarity, such as archery, gymnastics, or yoga. Some users report that it helps them concentrate better during workouts, leading to improved performance and motivation.

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Additionally, specific terpenes found in cannabis can enhance focus and your exercise experience. For example, pinene is known for improving alertness and memory retention, while limonene can elevate mood and reduce stress. Caryophyllene helps maintain a calm state of mind, conducive to focused thinking; pinene and eucalyptol have been shown through studies conducted on patients with Altzheimers to possess neuroprotective qualities that can help improve cognitive function and memory retention.

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It is important to note that THC can increase anxiety in some individuals, so choosing the right strain and dosage is crucial. Microdosing, take a look at my “A Beginner's Guide to Microdosing Cannabis” blog post to learn more about it, is a strategy some athletes use to balance the relaxing effects without significant impairment. Choosing strains rich in these beneficial terpenes and high in CBD may enable athletes to effectively tackle psychological challenges and significantly enhance your overall workout experience.

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Enhanced Enjoyment and Motivation

For some, cannabis can make workouts more enjoyable. The euphoric effects of THC can enhance the pleasure of physical activity, making it easier to maintain a regular exercise routine. According to a CU Boulder study, 90.5 percent of participants reported that cannabis made their overall workout more enjoyable. This enjoyment can translate into higher motivation levels and a more positive outlook on fitness. For instance, if you are someone who finds running monotonous, you might discover that a low dose of THC helps them enjoy your runs more, leading to longer and more frequent sessions. Similarly, group fitness classes can become more engaging and fun, potentially boosting social interaction and overall satisfaction with the workout experience.

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Improved Sleep Quality

Recovery is a critical component of any fitness regimen, and sleep plays a pivotal role in recovery. Poor sleep can lead to decreased performance, increased risk of injury, and prolonged recovery times. Cannabis, particularly strains high in certain terpenes like myrcene, is known for its sleep-promoting properties. Improved sleep quality can enhance muscle recovery, cognitive function, and overall athletic performance.

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Potential Risks and Considerations

While cannabis has potential benefits, it is important to consider the risks. Cannabis can impair motor skills and coordination, which could increase the risk of injury during workouts, especially those requiring precision and balance. For example, sports like rock climbing, gymnastics, or weightlifting demand high levels of coordination and focus, where impairment could lead to serious injuries. Additionally, smoking cannabis can negatively impact lung health, so alternative consumption methods like edibles, tinctures, or vaporizers might be preferable for athletes. Vaporizing, in particular, reduces the intake of harmful byproducts associated with combustion, making it a safer option for respiratory health.

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Legal Considerations

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has banned THC during competition, but allows the use of CBD. This distinction is important for competitive athletes who might benefit from CBD's therapeutic properties without risking disqualification. Athletes should stay informed about changes in cannabis regulations and ensure they are compliant with their sport's governing bodies to avoid penalties or suspensions.

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Individual Responses to Cannabis

It is crucial to recognize that individual responses to cannabis can vary significantly. Factors such as genetics, tolerance, and the method of consumption all play a role in how cannabis affects an individual. You may find that cannabis enhances your workouts, while others might experience adverse effects, and visa versa. It is important to start with low doses and gradually increase as needed, paying close attention to how your body responds. Consulting with healthcare professionals or experienced cannabis consumers can also provide valuable insights and help tailor cannabis use to individual needs and goals.

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Final Thoughts

Cannabis possesses a plethora of potential benefits for fitness enthusiasts, including pain relief, reduced inflammation, improved sleep, and enhanced enjoyment of workouts. As research continues, we will gain a clearer understanding of how cannabis can be effectively integrated into fitness routines. Approaching cannabis with an informed and cautious mindset may significantly enhance your workout routine, as it has for me.

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