The phrase “cannabis-inspired exercise motivation” may sound contradictory. However, a new study reveals a close relationship between marijuana use and physical activity. Many claim that marijuana use improves the experience of exercising and increases exercise engagement, defying the stereotype of lazy stoners. If you are considering incorporating marijuana into your medical regimen, you can do so simply by obtaining a medical marijuana card, which will grant you legal access to marijuana in your state.
For many, the key to developing healthier exercise habits and sticking to a routine is consuming cannabis or particular cannabinoids, which are naturally occurring chemical compounds of the cannabis plant, like CBD before, after, or during a workout. The effects of THC and CBD on exercise performance and pain management, as well as the potential for cannabis consumption to increase physical activity participation by making exercise more enjoyable, should all be further investigated in light of the latest research on cannabis and exercise motivation.
How Cannabis Influences Exercise Motivation
Cannabis-driven motivation for exercise may be able to address the main causes of people’s inability to stick to consistent exercise schedules:
- Lack of motivation
- Low exercise enjoyment
- Difficulty recovering after exercise
- Chronic pain and insomnia
A recent study from the University of Colorado at Boulder found that cannabis may encourage people to exercise more, even though there are no studies currently showing that cannabis improves athletic performance.
The Boulder study looked at 600 cannabis users in states that allow recreational use or have medical marijuana programs. 80% of participants reported using cannabis and working out on a daily basis. Furthermore:
- 78% said cannabis boosted recovery post-exercise.
- Cannabis motivated 52% of respondents to exercise.
- 70% said cannabis increased exercise enjoyment.
Researchers from the University of Colorado at Boulder concluded, “Furthermore, participants who use cannabis before and/or after exercise reported that they exercised more and had positive attitudes about co-use on exercise, which implies cannabis may be a useful tool for exercise among some users.”
How Cannabis Replicates the “Runner’s High”
The energy, pain relief, and euphoria that many people feel during or right after a workout are referred to as the “runner’s high.” It’s not just applicable to running. Actually, the feeling can be brought on by any physical activity that elevates the heart rate for at least half an hour.
Remarkably, the effects of “runner’s high” on the brain are chemically similar to those of THC. The main psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, THC, is what gives users of the plant their “high.” THC stimulates endocannabinoid receptors, which are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system, when it is consumed.
These receptors are comparable to those that exercise naturally activates in the body. For instance, THC and anandamide, a naturally occurring endocannabinoid known as the “bliss molecule” that increases motivation, mood, and energy while reducing pain and allegedly causing the popular “high” after a run, share a similar chemical structure.
Moreover, THC raises dopamine levels, which are linked to an increase in motivation, happiness, and attentiveness as well as a sense of reward and pleasure. Dopamine, like anandamide, is a neurotransmitter associated with the “runner’s high.”
These assertions are supported by a UC Boulder study, which found that 40% of cannabis users met or exceeded the 150 minutes of aerobic exercise per week advised by the American College of Sports Medicine. The study backs up anecdotal evidence from professional athletes that THC increases their enjoyment of training and motivates them to train. Cannabis was even prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency from being used during training because it may enhance athletic performance.
Cannabis Alleviates Workout Pain
Numerous aerobic activities, including strenuous sports and long-distance running, cause pain and inflammation in connective tissues, particularly in older adults. Cannabis is widely used to reduce pain during and after exercise. Cannabis may also provide relief from other health issues like depression or arthritis that may lower motivation to exercise.
Research indicates that THC and CBD have potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Additionally, some strains of the cannabis plant contain the terpene beta-caryophyllene, which has strong anti-inflammatory properties.
When used during exercise, cannabis can help reduce symptoms like pain and fatigue, which may improve endurance. According to more studies, using cannabis after working out can also lessen adverse effects like stiff muscles.
It is always advisable to consult a physician before beginning any medical marijuana use. Your physician will determine whether medical marijuana is a good fit for you and issue you a medical card that will allow you to legally use marijuana. You can select the best and obtain the cheapest medical marijuana card from the comfort of your home by using any of the many telehealth platforms that offer medical cards online.
Best Strains for Motivation
For energy and motivation, sativa-style strains (chemovars) with terpenes like limonene, pinene, and beta-caryophyllene work best. Additionally, low doses of CBD and THC may have more stimulating effects. These five cannabis flower stains are great for enhancing energy.
- Durban Poison
Strong energizing effects are produced by Durban Poison, a sativa strain that also promotes euphoria and mental clarity. Many claim that this is the most stimulating strain they have ever tried.
- Super Lemon Haze
Reviewers of Super Lemon Haze, a Cannabis Cup winner, report experiencing extreme euphoria and an uplifted cerebral high that leaves them feeling extremely productive.
- Sour Diesel
This stimulating strain has a high THC content and is well-regarded in the medical marijuana community for its potent antidepressant, stress-relieving, anxiety-reducing, and pain-relieving properties. Some users claim that doing this before a run or at the gym helps them “zone in.”
- Harlequin
It’s not always the case that sativa strains with higher THC content are more stimulating. Users of the high-CBD Harlequin cultivar claim that the effects of this strain help them stay focused during workouts and even block out pain.
- Chocolope
Chocolope is a top choice for those who want to stay active because of its intensely cerebral and uplifting effects, which inspire users to take on any task, like going for a long hike or working out.