As the consumption of cannabis becomes more normalized, so does the idea of working out while under its influence. 

A Dec 2023 study published by Sports Medicine found that the majority of the 42 participants reported feeling more enjoyment from 30 minutes of running on a treadmill after consuming cannabis.

“We have an epidemic of a sedentary lifestyle in this country, and we need new tools to try to get people to move their bodies in ways that are enjoyable,” Anglea Bryan, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at CU told The Denver Post. “If cannabis is one of those tools, we need to explore it, keeping in mind both the harms and the benefits.”

When it comes to cannabis’ effect on recovery from a workout, 2020 research conducted by Johnson et al (cited by 2 Fast 4 Buds) explored the impacts of CBD on indicators of recovery, such as inflammation and muscle soreness. Their results found that CBD may accelerate recovery due to its anti-inflammatory characteristics.

The influence of cannabis-infused workouts is likely to vary greatly from person to person. Factors include genetics, existing health conditions, fitness objectives, and the variety and dosage of cannabis consumed all contribute to this individualized experience. People dealing with chronic pain or anxiety may discover that cannabis helps keep them motivated to exercise. However, individuals with respiratory issues or a background of mental health concerns should exercise extra caution due to potential interactions with cannabis. 

Ultimately, the choice to integrate cannabis into a workout regimen is up to the individual. It’s essential to have open discussions with a healthcare provider to assess potential benefits and risks based on personal circumstances.

More research is needed when it comes to the amount of cannabis consumption, the type of cannabis consumed, and the long-term effects. While the idea of cannabis-infused workouts can still be considered complex, research shows the possibility of its potential benefits motivation, pain management, and recovery.