When you think of cannabis and wellness, your mind probably goes straight to its well-known benefits like better sleep or pain relief. But there’s another connection gaining traction: cannabis and exercise.

From pro athletes to casual gym-goers, more people are discovering how marijuana can enhance their workouts. Whether it’s boosting motivation, making exercise more enjoyable, or helping with recovery, cannabis can be an ally in your fitness journey.

So how does it work? And, more importantly, is it the right fit for you? Let’s explore the science, benefits, and practical tips to help you decide if cannabis deserves a spot in your workout routine.

The Science of Cannabis and Exercise 

There’s no shortage of people who now swear by the benefits of weed and workouts. Beyond these accounts, a growing body of research is uncovering how cannabis might support better workouts and overall wellness. 

For example, CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce exercise-induced inflammation and aid in muscle recovery. THC, on the other hand, has the potential to amplify the natural euphoria associated with exercise, while both THC and CBD interact with the endocannabinoid system to enhance the body’s response to physical activity.

Although the science is still in its early stages, the combination of emerging research and widespread anecdotal evidence suggests there’s more to explore when it comes to cannabis and exercise. 

How Cannabis Can Affect Your Workout 

Motivation and Enjoyment

Some people find that marijuana helps them look forward to working out by reducing mental resistance and anxiety.

  • Activities to Try: Light cardio, weightlifting, hiking, yoga, and long training sessions.
  • Choose the Right Product: Inhalation (smoking or vaping) is a good option pre-workout because the effects are fast and easier to control, but if you want to go easy on your lungs, Sativa-dominant tinctures have a similar effect. Edibles can work for long training sessions (just test the dosage and time it takes to set in beforehand). 
  • Fast Fact: 57% of athletes say cannabis helps them feel more motivated.

Recovery and Soreness Relief

CBD-dominant cannabis products (think cannabis flower, edibles, and patches) can help soothe inflammation, soreness, or post-workout aches and pains. THC can have the same therapeutic effects but with the added psychoactive high.

  • Activities to Try: Post-workout recovery (massage, resting, or stretching) or deep stretching and yoga. 
  • Choose the Right Product:
    • CBD/THC Topicals: Balms or creams applied directly to sore muscles.
    • Edibles or Infused Bath Bombs: For full-body relaxation and longer-lasting effects.
    • Indica or CBD Dominant Strains
  • Fast Fact: 69% of athletes say cannabis helps them manage pain.

Relaxation and the Joy of Movement

Cannabis can help you feel more feel more present, relaxed, and connected to your body during exercise, making activities more enjoyable.

  • Activities to Try: Yoga, stretching, swimming, walking, or low-impact cardio.
  • Choose the Right Product: Light edibles or low-THC vape options.
  • Fast Fact: 91% of athletes say cannabis increases enjoyment during exercise.

Endurance and Focus

Cannabis may help some people enter a “flow state” or zone out mental distractions, improving endurance.

  • Best Activities: Running, cycling, or longer-duration cardio.
  • Choose the Right Product: Sativa-dominant strains or tinctures for a controlled, energizing effect.
  • Fast Fact: 60% of athletes say cannabis helps them increase their focus during workouts.

Tips for Working Cannabis Into Your Workout 

The basics for a safe and productive workout apply here, with a few weed-specific additions:

  1. Choose the Form of Cannabis that Works for You: As we covered above, there are many different forms of cannabis to try if smoking and vaping aren’t your thing.
  2. Consider the Dominace: The effects of cannabis will be different for everyone depending largely on the dominance and strain of the product. As a general rule try: Sativas for energy, Indica and CBD-dominant products for recovery, and Hybrids for a more balanced experience. 
  3. Start Low and Go Slow: Microdose and monitor your tolerance.
  4. Stay Hydrated: Cannabis can cause dry mouth so staying conscious of your water intake and (then drinking a little more) will go a long way. 
  5. Listen to Your Body! Stay tuned in and allow some flexibility to adjust your workout if you feel uncomfortable or impaired.

Not Sure Where to Start with Cannabis and Exercise?

Whether you want to elevate your runs, relax into yoga, or recover faster, cannabis and exercise could be the missing piece of your wellness routine. At Key Cannabis Dispensaries, our knowledgeable Budtenders can help guide you to the products that 

Just remember – experiment responsibly and find what works for your body!