Cannabis and Exercise: What You Need to Know
Yes, cannabis can be used before or after exercise, but it depends on your goals and the strain. It may help with pain and relaxation post-workout, but can impair coordination and motivation during exercise. Start low and go slow.
Why Consider Cannabis with Exercise?
Many people wonder if cannabis and exercise mix. The short answer is yes, but it's not one-size-fits-all. Some find that a bit of cannabis before a workout helps them focus on the mind-muscle connection, while others use it after to unwind and ease soreness. The key is understanding how different strains and doses affect your body.
We carry a range of products at our Boston dispensary at 200 High St, and our team can help you explore options. But before you try it, let's break down the potential benefits and drawbacks.
Potential Benefits of Combining Cannabis and Exercise
For some, cannabis can enhance the exercise experience in several ways:
- Pain relief: Cannabinoids like THC and CBD may help manage post-workout soreness and chronic pain, making it easier to stick with a routine.
- Reduced anxiety: For those who feel nervous about hitting the gym, a low dose of a calming strain might help you get into the zone.
- Increased enjoyment: Some people find that cannabis makes repetitive exercise like running or cycling more enjoyable, helping them go longer.
- Better sleep: If you work out in the evening, cannabis after exercise might improve sleep quality, which is crucial for recovery.
These benefits are anecdotal, and the science is still emerging. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) notes that research on cannabis and exercise is limited, but some studies suggest potential for pain relief.
Potential Drawbacks to Keep in Mind
On the flip side, cannabis can work against you during a workout. Here’s what to watch for:
- Impaired coordination: THC can affect balance and motor skills, increasing the risk of injury, especially with weights or high-intensity interval training.
- Increased heart rate: Cannabis can raise your heart rate, which might be uncomfortable or risky if you have heart conditions. It’s best to consult a doctor if you have concerns.
- Decreased motivation: Some strains, especially indicas, can make you feel lazy and unmotivated, which is the opposite of what you want pre-workout.
- Dry mouth and dehydration: Cottonmouth can be a distraction, and you need to stay hydrated during exercise.
If you're running through the [[dispensary-in-back-bay|Back Bay]] or biking in [[dispensary-in-south-end|South End]], you want to be alert. Save the heavy-hitting indica for after you've cooled down.
Before or After? Timing Matters
The best time to use cannabis depends on your fitness goals. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Timing | Best for | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Before exercise | Focus, enjoyment, reducing pre-workout anxiety | Choose sativa or hybrid strains; start with a low dose to avoid impairment. |
| After exercise | Pain relief, relaxation, sleep | Indica strains or CBD products may help with recovery; avoid overdoing it. |
If you're new, start with a small dose—think a few puffs of a vape or a low-dose edible—and see how your body responds. Remember, edibles take longer to kick in, so don't be tempted to take more if you don't feel it right away.
Long-term effects of cannabis
Long-term cannabis use has been studied for decades, but the picture is still incomplete. Because cannabis remains federally illegal in many places, researchers face hurdles in conducting large-scale, long-term studies. In 2017, the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine reviewed thousands of studies and found substantial evidence linking cannabis to certain benefits, like pain relief, but also to risks, including respiratory issues from smoking and potential for cannabis use disorder. The report also noted limited evidence for many other outcomes, meaning we still don't know the full long-term impact. For the average person who uses cannabis occasionally, the risks may be lower, but for heavy, long-term users, there are real concerns about memory, mental health, and dependence. If you're considering using cannabis with exercise, it's wise to keep your use moderate and be aware of how it affects your body over time.
Directions to our dispensary in Boston from Exchange Place
Start at Exchange Place and head to Primitiv at 200 High St, Boston, MA 02110.
How to Choose the Right Product
Not all cannabis is created equal when it comes to exercise. Here are a few tips:
- Know your strain: Indica vs sativa vs hybrid matters. Sativas are often more uplifting, while indicas are more sedating. Hybrids can give you a balance.
- Consider CBD: If you're looking for recovery without the high, THC vs CBD is a key distinction. CBD topicals or tinctures can target sore muscles without psychoactive effects.
- Check the label: How to read cannabis labels helps you understand THC and CBD content, so you can pick a product that fits your workout.
- Ask for help: Our budtenders at Primitiv can guide you based on your experience level. If you're a beginner, best strains for beginners might be a good starting point.
What to Expect When You Try It
Everyone reacts differently. You might feel more in tune with your body, or you might feel too spacey to complete your reps. It's normal for the effects to vary based on your tolerance, the strain, and the dose.
If you're working out in a busy area like [[dispensary-in-fenway|Fenway]] or near the [[dispensary-in-dorchester|Dorchester]] waterfront, be extra cautious about your surroundings. Don't drive or operate heavy equipment after using cannabis, and always have a buddy if you're trying something new.
When to Seek Help
If you experience anxiety, paranoia, or a racing heart after combining cannabis with exercise, stop and rest. These feelings usually pass, but if they persist or you have chest pain, seek medical attention immediately.
Also, if you have a heart condition, high blood pressure, or are pregnant, talk to your doctor before using cannabis with exercise. For more on how cannabis might affect you, read about cannabis and medication interactions to stay safe.
Also asked as
- Weed and working out
- Does cannabis help with recovery?
- Is it safe to exercise after smoking weed?
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to exercise after smoking weed?
It can be safe for some, but it depends on the strain and dose. Light exercise like walking or yoga may be fine, but avoid activities that require balance or quick reflexes. Start with a low dose and see how you feel.
Can cannabis help with muscle recovery?
Some people find that cannabis, especially CBD, helps reduce inflammation and soreness after a workout. THC may also help with pain, but it can impair sleep quality in some cases, which is counterproductive for recovery.
What's the best strain for working out?
Sativa strains are often preferred for pre-workout energy and focus, while indicas are better for post-workout relaxation. Hybrids can offer a balance. It's best to experiment with low doses to find what works for you.
Will cannabis make me lazy at the gym?
Some strains, especially high-THC indicas, can make you feel sedated and unmotivated. If you want to stay active, choose a sativa or a balanced hybrid. Also, keep the dose low to avoid couch-lock.