Weed and Exercise: Is it Beneficial?
77% of active individuals who use cannabis report positive effects such as improvements in focus, energy, relaxation & recovery.
With the decriminalization of cannabis on the rise, more professional athletes are discussing its use. A study from 2017 found that over 92% of gym-goers have tried getting high, while a 2020 survey revealed that one in four athletes regularly use cannabis. But what is the actual impact of weed on athletic performance?
A paper published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research examined cannabis use among female athletes. The researchers found no significant differences in body composition, heart function, or strength between long-term cannabis users and non-users. The only notable change was that cannabis users tended to be less powerful but exhibited better endurance.
Currently, there is minimal research on the long-term effects of cannabis on athletic performance. While there is no evidence to suggest that cannabis could replace an after-work protein shake, 77% of active individuals who use cannabis report positive effects on their performance, citing improvements in focus, energy, relaxation, and recovery.
CBD has gained significant recognition in the fitness industry in recent years. Many brands are targeting their products at dedicated but fatigued fitness enthusiasts, claiming to alleviate sleep disturbances, pain, stress, and inflammation while supporting immune function.
Iff CBD is as beneficial as suggested, is there a need to consume THC as well?
Cannabis contains over 120 cannabinoids, and as research progresses, we are beginning to understand the plant's holistic benefits for health. This aligns with the "entourage effect" theory, which posits that consuming the whole plant may provide more comprehensive and beneficial effects than isolating a single cannabinoid.
What Does Science Say About Cannabis and Exercise?
Science is actively gathering evidence on the benefits of medicinal cannabis for individuals with health conditions like anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. Results indicate considerable improvements after just three months of cannabis use. Increased sleep quality can lead to better daily functioning, which could be particularly impactful for athletes or gym-goers, where even a 1% improvement can be crucial for success.
Some research even shows that cannabis can positively influence REM sleep, which may enhance sleep quality for medicinal cannabis users. The relaxation induced by cannabis is widely acknowledged. Notably, the NBA announced this year that it will no longer test players for cannabis use.
In 2022, the World Anti-Doping Agency confirmed that cannabis remains on the banned substances list. This decision was not based on the belief that cannabis enhances athletic performance, but rather because being intoxicated during competitions could pose dangers to other competitors.
While further research is needed, existing studies indicate that consuming cannabis before training does not improve performance and may even hinder it. Most experts agree that exercising while under the influence of cannabis is inadvisable. It is essential to focus on achieving peak performance, as cannabis can negatively affect coordination and balance.
Nonetheless, it is clear that getting high and working out can coexist, largely because relaxation and quality sleep are underrated aspects of good health and athletic performance.
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Liz Filmer
