In recent years, cannabis has become more accessible than ever, leading to more people consuming it.
Currently, it is legal in several parts of the US and many countries around the world, which has helped reduce the stigma surrounding it.
With this shift of societal perception, a number of athletes who are seeking ways to maximise performance are exploring the benefits smoking weed offers.
The question that raises is whether cannabis truly enhances athletic performance and overall exercise experience.
Cannabis is known for its psychoactive effects, especially the compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
When consumed, it triggers a release of dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, leading to feelings of euphoria and relaxation.
The effects of cannabis on exercise are different for different people.
While some report enhanced focus during exercises with the help of the weed, others experience impaired performance.
Jessamyn Stanley, a yoga teacher, body positivity advocate, and writer, highlights the mental advantages of using cannabis before exercise. “Using weed before a workout is a great way to get out of your head about what’s to come,” she explains.
Since exercise is challenging for many, consuming weed can ease the mind and help individuals approach workout with a more positive mindset.
Herb reports of a 1975 study that explored how smoking cannabis could affect prolonged physical activities like cycling.
The results showed that cannabis users (18.2mg THC) experienced reduced cycling endurance. At first, this was linked to higher heart rates, but that was later challenged as cannabis consumption elevates heart rates.
Another potential benefit of consuming cannabis is pain relief and inflammation reduction.
A survey in Nature found that around 70% of people who consume cannabis said being high made workouts more enjoyable, and cannabis users exercised longer than non-users. However, the findings are limited and observational, meaning they only show correlation, not causation.
Some of the risks of smoking weed users need to consider are that THC can impair coordination and judgment and increase the risk of exercise-related injuries.
The final thought would be that you should always consume with caution.
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