When I was a college athlete, I started experimenting with cannabis with friends. At the time, there wasn’t much information about how smoking a joint would help in my sports activities.
Through trial and error, I found that it helped me relax after highly competitive workouts and relieved some of the physical stress caused by sports. But even though I’ve learned a lot about cannabis and exercise in the decade since then, I would never show up to the stoned court — and still won’t. However, I would consider a puff before a long run, workout class, gym session, or hike.
People are experimenting with how to use the plant before, during, and after a workout in everything from yoga class where you can consume cannabis for Stoned + Toned online training groups. In my days as a sportsman, gym rat, and yoga teacher, I’ve learned a lot about how to set the right ground for successful stoner training. The plant has its place in a workout plan, but I’ve still found that some exercise experiences are better when sober.
The Effects of Mixing Cannabis and Exercise
In an old green state interview, Dr. Kenneth Weinberg broke down the benefits of cannabis as a pre-workout. He confirmed that consuming cannabis before training has been shown to increase focus, reduce pain, relax muscles and possibly open the airways. And, of course, it can foster a positive attitude in the face of adversity – like approaching a steep incline in the second half of a long run.
However, there are things to know before infusing a workout. Cannabis and exercise increase a person’s heart rate, which can cause fainting, fatigue, and shortness of breath, among other things other Side effects. It’s wise to consult a doctor before adding cannabis to a training regimen to avoid these complications – and even then start slowly, consuming around 2.5mg at a time until you find the right amount for you. .
Finding the right dose often comes down to finding the preferred mode of consumption. It can be difficult to measure a flower in milligrams, however. Perfect blends has a big hitter that measures 75mg of inhalable herbs. As for edibles, some can take a while to kick in, which could benefit those who prefer the high to kick in later, which could help keep the momentum going through a long workout.
Many health-conscious people choose vapes over smoking, but it’s wise to know the dangers of choosing a vape pen before deciding on one. Finding a preferred method depends on ease of dosing and personal preference – this process may take some trial and error.
Once you have found the optimal amount and method of consumption, it is time to determine the appropriate arena for heavy training.
The time and place for intensive training
There is a time and a place to mix cannabis into a workout regimen. For example, getting high before doing a pre-filmed virtual class at home has never worked for me. It’s too easy to slip on the couch when the going gets tough. But a microdose can be a great motivator while doing the same type of workout in a public place like a gym class.
And as I mentioned before, I wouldn’t mix football and cannabis due to the fine motor skills involved, but a nice long run can be great when accompanied by a smooth stone. Much like exercising at home, however, if I use cannabis before getting into my running clothes and shoes, I often stay where I am. Instead, I opt for an open air puff before stepping straight into my run.
When it comes to yoga, I have mixed feelings about cannabis use. In my opinion, cannabis should be a tool of practice and teaching, and never of appropriation. Including the Yoga Sutras and other elders yoga philosophies in classes and honoring the ancient lineages that passed down the asanas are two ways to remain grateful rather than appropriative.
I studied Ashtanga for a few years after a decade of unfocused practice. Ashtanga is designed to burn away the accumulated stresses of everyday life, leaving clear mind– for me, it led to building resilience in my physical and emotional body. In this practice, the arrival in Mysore or the stoned retreats did not lead to the best possible effort. However, it came in handy after rigorous classes in soothing sore muscles and guiding me through some emotionally draining times.
Cannabis can be useful for all sorts of things – and exercise is on the list. The benefits are ideal for muscle recovery, and a properly executed high has helped me maintain stamina, stay focused, and perform through pain when I’m tired. As the normalization of cannabis permeates into the culture, and even professional athletes have access to the plant – a more accurate understanding of how the plant and training blend together. In the meantime, use these tips to identify what works for your exercise program.
Cara Wietstock is Senior Content Producer at GreenState.com and has worked in the cannabis space since 2011. She has covered the beat of the cannabis industry for Ganjapreneur and The Spokesman Review. You can find her living in Bellingham, Washington with her husband, son, and a small pet zoo.