Cannabis has long been associated with the stereotypical image of a lazy, couch-locked stoner. However, recent studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that cannabis may actually have a place in the world of fitness and exercise. Is it really beneficial to workout with cannabis, or is it just another myth surrounding the enigmatic plant?
One potential benefit of cannabis use during exercise is pain relief. Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain and inflammation, but these medications can have negative side effects on the liver and gastrointestinal tract. Cannabis, on the other hand, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties without these harmful effects.
Additionally, some research suggests that cannabis may help improve endurance during exercise. THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, has been shown to increase heart rate and blood flow, which could lead to improved cardiovascular performance. However, these effects may be counteracted by the sedative effects of other components of cannabis, such as CBD, which could lead to decreased performance.
It’s also worth noting that cannabis can have negative effects on coordination and motor skills, which could be dangerous during certain types of exercise or activities. Additionally, smoking cannabis can be harmful to lung health, which is obviously not ideal for someone who is trying to improve their overall physical fitness.
While the idea of using cannabis to enhance your workout may be intriguing, there’s still a lot we don’t know about how cannabis interacts with the body during exercise. More research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of cannabis use in this context.
So, should you use cannabis before or during your workout? The answer is not clear cut. It may be worth exploring cannabis as an alternative to traditional pain medications, but it’s important to approach cannabis use with caution and to be aware of the potential risks. Ultimately, it’s up to you to weigh the potential benefits against the potential drawbacks and decide what’s best for your body and your fitness goals.
