One application of cannabis that has not fully been explored is its importance in fitness today. Introducing cannabis into your fitness routine is a new trend that has gained popularity since the COVID-19 lockdown. Recently, there has been the rise of a fitness community that refers to themselves as “stoner-cisers”. They say exercising when they’ve consumed cannabis has helped them lose weight, keep a clearer mind, and maintain healthy energy levels.
Cannabis presents various potential benefits, and it can be an important way to increase motivation and enhance your workout routines generally.
Cannabis has two major components of interest that have different beneficial effects on your workout routines. It has THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is well known for its psychotic effects on people, and this is what is responsible for the mental aspects of preparedness during workouts. The THC content in cannabis can help motivate you to exercise. A study by UC Boulder shows that nearly 50% of pre-workout smokers felt motivated to work out after lighting up a joint. The THC content in cannabis also accounts for the artificial induction of a “runner’s high,” which creates a feeling of wanting to go through more physical exercise; this way, THC can make you want to work out for a longer period of time.
CBD (cannabidiol) is well-known for its healing effects post-workout. It activates receptors that make you feel at ease after a workout session. It also gives you therapeutic properties and anti-inflammatory effects on your muscles and joints.
With so many different cannabis strains out there to choose from, finding the right one to enhance your workout routine can take some experimentation.
For some people, sativa is awesome for pre-gym sessions when there is a need to crank out a long cardio day. It gives you a nice lift in focus and energy. But some people, especially those who carry heavy weights, agree to prefer indica for powering through strength training—everyone’s biology is different.
If you’re new to cannabis, start slowly with a low-THC variety and give it time to take effect before exercising. Pay close attention to how your mind and body feel. The goal is for you to elevate your workout routines and not hinder your performance. Don’t worry about what’s trendy—the best cannabis strain for fitness is whatever helps YOU power through while staying clear-headed and injury-free.
Mixing cannabis and working out can be great, but you’ve got to take a responsible approach.
For some people, microdosing cannabis keeps them in the zone mentally without slowing down their reaction time. However, there are people who get too spacey and dizzy if they consume cannabis too close to their period for exercise.
If that happens to you, make sure to allow more time for the effects to wear off before you get moving. Staying adequately hydrated is the key. Listen to your body, and don’t use cannabis in a way that puts your health at risk. Moderation in the dose you take is also key to effectively using it for exercise.
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The interplay between cannabis and exercise can be quite complex. Some people report that cannabis helps them push harder and stay more engaged during training, and for some people, the opposite occurs.
It is advisable for you to avoid cannabis on days when you need peak athletic performance. Things like sprints or technical weightlifting require total clarity and body control. But for lower-intensity activities like yoga, cannabis can enhance relaxation and mindfulness. Get to know your body’s response and design your cannabis usage accordingly.
CBD (cannabidiol) is non-intoxicating and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help your body bounce back after a workout session.
It is good to always keep some CBD topicals on hand, and rubbing the balm on sore muscles post-gym can help you recover faster. CBD also helps you sleep better, and it boosts your metabolism. But don’t assume CBD alone will solve all your post-workout problems. You still need to prioritize nutrition, rest, hydration, and movement therapy.
Think of CBD as one tool in your recovery toolkit, not a magic bullet.
Some individuals find cannabis helps deepen their mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, or breathwork. But cannabis affects everyone differently—it may hinder rather than enhance mindfulness for some.
If trying cannabis with meditation, start slowly and pay attention to your state of mind. Avoid getting overly spaced out—staying present is key. Let your direct experience guide you in determining if cannabis supports or detracts from your mindfulness routine.
Before adding cannabis to your fitness routine, consult a knowledgeable medical professional. They can assess your goals, and history and propose guidelines to suit your needs. Discussing cannabis use openly allows doctors to watch for interactions with medications or supplements.
Trainers can also offer strain and timing suggestions tailored to your workouts. Their personalized guidance ensures safe, effective cannabis fitness integration.
Thoughtfully using cannabis for fitness necessitates self-awareness and moderation. Cannabis affects everyone differently; find the approach that’s right for you. Start slowly, observe your body’s signals, and adjust your usage based on your direct experience.
With an informed, well-being-focused mindset, cannabis can complement fitness routines for many people when integrated consciously. But listen to your body and prioritize your health.
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