The old stoner stereotype has painted the typical cannabis user as a lazy, couch-bound individual munching on snacks. Of course, we know this couldn’t be further from the truth! Fortunately, this image is being challenged as more and more people are integrating cannabis into their daily lives – including fitness routines. Whether it’s to get motivated, aid in recovery, or enhance the overall experience, cannabis is proving to be a beneficial addition to many exercise regimens.
Benefits of Combining Weed and Exercise
Looking for a few more reasons to power up your workout with a little bit of pot? Here’s a few.
Increased Focus
One of the most common reasons people use weed before a workout is because it can help them to stay focused and on-task. By reducing distractions and promoting a sense of calm, getting high may help athletes to push through tough workouts and stay on track with their goals.
Improved Mood
Exercise is great for boosting mood and reducing stress, but sometimes we could all use a little extra help in the happiness department. That’s where weed comes in! Many athletes report feeling more positive and motivated after using marijuana, which can make working out feel more enjoyable and less like a chore.
Pain Relief and Recovery
Let’s face it: exercise can be tough on our bodies. Whether you’re dealing with an injury or just some general aches and pains, cannabis can help to ease discomfort and make your workout feel more manageable. Plus, by reducing pain, you may be able to push yourself a little harder and achieve better results.
When you need a little post-workout recovery: cannabis is a winner. Not only can it help reduce inflammation, but it can also help you get a great night’s sleep – which is critical to restoration and recovery.
Increased Creativity
Do you ever feel like you’re in a workout rut? If so, weed might be just what you need to mix things up! By promoting creativity and new ideas, weed can help you to come up with fresh and exciting workout routines to stay engaged and motivated.
Combining Weed and Exercise Into Your Fitness Routine
The effects of cannabis on physicality can vary depending on the individual, the type and strain of cannabis used, and the specific exercise or activity being performed. So that just means that you get to have a little fun experimenting until you find your groove. Keep in mind that less is more when getting high before working out. There’s definitely a tipping point, and you want to stay on the right side of it.
Cannabis Before Working Out
Using cannabis before working out can help improve your mindset and enhance your overall experience. It may help increase focus, reduce anxiety, and even provide an extra boost of motivation. When choosing a strain, many people opt for a sativa-dominant variety or a strain higher in limonene and pinene, as these tend to be more energizing and uplifting. It’s also essential to experiment with dosage and timing to find the optimal combination for your pre-workout routine.
If you like a cup of coffee in the morning, a hippie speedball might be the perfect way to up your pre-workout with cannabis.
Cannabis After Working Out
Cannabis can also be beneficial after a workout, as it can aid in recovery and relaxation. Have a puff or two after a workout to help reduce inflammation, alleviate muscle soreness, and promote better sleep. You might try an indica-dominant hybrid or something with heftier myrcene and linalool content to take full advantage of the calming and sedating effects.
Professional Athletes Who Use Cannabis
Over the years, a number of high-profile athletes have spoken out about their use of cannabis as part of their training regimen or recovery routine. Here are a few notable examples:
- Megan Rapinoe – The soccer star and Olympic gold medalist has been vocal about her support for cannabis, both for medical and recreational purposes.
- Nate Diaz – This UFC fighter made headlines when he openly vaped CBD oil during a post-fight press conference, stating that it helps with his recovery.
- Ross Rebagliati – This Canadian snowboarder made history when he won the first Olympic gold medal for snowboarding at the 1998 Winter Olympics, only to have it briefly taken away when he tested positive for THC. The decision was later overturned, but it sparked a conversation about cannabis use in sports.
- Eugene Monroe – The former NFL player has become an advocate for cannabis use in sports, citing its potential benefits for pain relief and reducing the need for opioids.
- Riley Cote – This retired NHL player has become a vocal advocate for cannabis use in sports, particularly for its potential benefits in managing the physical toll of playing hockey.
These are just a few examples, but there are likely many more athletes who use cannabis behind closed doors. Ricky Williams, former NFL running back, claims that anywhere between 60-70% of NFL players (including quarterbacks and coaches) smoke weed! As attitudes towards cannabis continue to evolve, it will be interesting to see how its use in sports becomes more accepted and mainstream.
Good Exercises to Do While High
Of course, we’re inspired by the stories of Olympic athletes and professional ballers who claim cannabis helps them get their minds (and bodies) right. We might not all be taking home any gold medals, but that doesn’t mean we can elevate our daily fitness routines with a mild buzz. Start where you are and see where it takes you.
Yoga
Yoga and cannabis are a natural pairing, as both promote mindfulness, relaxation, and a deep connection to the body. Practicing yoga while high can enhance the experience by allowing you to tune into your body’s sensations more acutely and deepen your breathing. Many users report a greater sense of calm and flexibility when combining yoga and cannabis, making it an ideal option for those looking to elevate their practice.
Cardio
Cardio exercises like running, cycling, and swimming can be a great match for cannabis, especially if you’re using a limonene or pinene-dominant strain. The energizing and uplifting effects can help you get in the zone, making it easier to achieve a runner’s high or push through a challenging workout. Be mindful of your dosage, though, as too much THC can lead to paranoia or anxiety, which could hinder your workout experience.
Weight Lifting
Weight lifting and cannabis may seem like an unlikely combination, but some users find it helps them focus on their form and reduce anxiety about pushing their limits. If you’re considering trying cannabis during your weightlifting sessions, start with a low dose to see how it affects your performance and mindset. Keep in mind that safety should always come first, so if you feel too intoxicated or disoriented, save the cannabis for post-workout relaxation.
Get Lit and Get Fit
Combining weed and exercise can provide numerous benefits for some individuals, from enhanced focus and motivation to improved recovery and relaxation. It’s crucial to experiment with different strains, dosages, and timings to find the right balance for your unique needs and fitness goals. As with any supplement or fitness tool, always prioritize safety and listen to your body’s signals. With the right approach, cannabis can be a valuable addition to your workout routine, helping you achieve new heights in your fitness journey.
When you’re ready to catch a buzz before getting buff, be sure to find some Old Pal close to you. Grab a pack of pre-rolls or roll your own with our Ready-to-Roll flower. No matter how you like to get lit, let weed and exercise take you to new heights in your wellness routine.
