Weed has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for centuries. Its active compounds, including THC and CBD, have been shown to have numerous health benefits, including pain relief, reducing anxiety, and promoting relaxation. In recent years, there has been growing interest in combining weed and exercise to enhance athletic performance and recovery. In this article, we will explore the potential benefits and risks of consuming cannabis before exercise.
Benefits of Combining Weed and Exercise
The benefits of cannabis and exercise are quite attractive and definitely something worth considering when trying to decide if you’re going to give it a try. Let’s dive into some of the positives that you may experience with a cannabis infused workout.
Physical Benefits
One of the primary reasons people consume cannabis before working out is for pain relief. Cannabis has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, making it an appealing option for athletes dealing with sore muscles and joints. Additionally, cannabis can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can be helpful for athletes who experience pre-competition jitters or have difficulty relaxing before a workout.
One of the most significant potential benefits of consuming cannabis before working out is its ability to increase motivation and endurance. Studies have shown that cannabis can increase oxygen uptake and reduce fatigue, allowing athletes to work out for longer periods of time without experiencing exhaustion. Additionally, cannabis can help to increase energy levels and promote a sense of euphoria, which can be helpful for athletes who need an extra boost to push through a tough workout.
Mental Benefits
Another potential benefit of consuming cannabis before working out is its ability to increase focus and concentration. Cannabis has been shown to improve cognitive function and increase attention span, which can be helpful for athletes who need to stay focused during their workouts. Additionally, cannabis can help to increase creativity and promote a sense of flow, which can enhance the overall workout experience.
Potential Risks of Combining Weed and Exercise
There are a few risks when consuming weed before exercise that should be considered to ensure safety and health for the individual. Below we’ll break down what you should be on the lookout for when it comes to a potential negative side effect.
Physical Risks
Despite these potential benefits, there are also some risks associated with consuming cannabis before working out. One of the most significant risks is impaired coordination and balance, which can increase the risk of injury during exercise. Additionally, cannabis can cause changes in heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
It is also important to note that cannabis affects individuals differently, and the effects can vary depending on the strain, dosage, and method of consumption. Therefore, it is essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed to find the optimal level of cannabis consumption for each individual.
Mental Risks
Another potential risk of consuming cannabis before working out is impaired reaction time and decision making, which can be particularly dangerous for athletes who participate in high-speed sports like football or hockey. Cannabis can also cause dizziness and disorientation, which can make it difficult to perform complex movements and exercises.
Best Practices for Combining Weed and Exercise
Consuming cannabis before working out can have both potential benefits and risks. It can help to alleviate pain, reduce anxiety, increase focus and concentration, and increase motivation and endurance. However, it can also impair coordination and balance, increase the risk of injury, and cause changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
Therefore, it is important to approach cannabis consumption before working out with caution and to start with a low dose to determine its effects on each individual. If you are considering using cannabis before working out, it is recommended that you speak with a healthcare professional to determine if it is safe for you.
Make sure when you combine cannabis and exercise that you choose a nice and uplifting strain that will help you power through the workout. Another key contributor to the success of weed and exercise is proper hydration. Nobody wants to workout with cotton-mouth, but more importantly hydration is key for maintaining a healthy physiology. As always make sure you’re following your local and state laws when it comes to cannabis consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to smoke weed before exercising?
This depends on the individual, if you have any concerns make sure to consult your physician for any medical advice.
What are the best strains for exercising?
The best strains for exercising are the ones that provide uplifting effects and energy. This means that more often than not you’ll want a nice sativa to use for your preworkout.
How long should I wait to exercise after consuming weed?
It really depends on what you’re comfortable with, usually the sooner the better so the effects will last throughout the workout.
Can I combine weed with any type of exercise?
As long as you are comfortable and your body responds positively, absolutely yes!
Can I legally use weed for exercise?
As long as you live in a medical or recreational legal state and are compliant with the respective laws you’re good to go!
Can I use weed to treat a workout injury?
Always seek the advice and treatment from a medical doctor when dealing with injuries. Despite cannabis being helpful with inflammation it’s important to let the professionals do what they do best.
Are there any workout supplements that shouldn’t be combined with weed?
When trying weed and exercise for the first time it may be a good idea to stay away from any supplement with caffeine or something that’ll raise your heart rate.
What should I do if I experience negative side effects while using weed for exercise?
Stop exercising immediately and call it for the day. Furthermore, don’t use weed in the future before working out.
Take the High Road to Fitness
Next time you’re heading out for a workout consider adding a bit of cannabis to your routine. Just make sure that you weigh the risks and benefits personally, clearing up any concerns with your doctor. Do that and you’ll be on your way to the best workout you’ve had in a while!