Blog

Michael Phelps and Sha’Carri Richardson are among the most accomplished US Olympians, and they have one thing in common. Both athletes have controversies related to being suspended for using cannabis during their training.

This leads many to believe that using cannabis for workouts can enhance physical performance similar to how it amplifies creativity.

However, research attempting to determine the impact cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) have on exercise, including a 2023 study by the University of Colorado Boulder involving 42 runners, is difficult to come by. This is because cannabis is still federally illegal due to its Schedule I status with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

See also: Cannabis and Sex: The Science, Benefits, and Best Products to Try

Let’s dive into the science to determine how cannabis impacts workouts based on what we know thus far.

Understanding Our Body’s Endocannabinoid System

Cannabinoids are the main unique compounds found in the cannabis plant, including THC and CBD. In total, over 110 cannabinoids have been discovered in the cannabis plant, and each strain contains a unique mix. When occurring in the plant, they are called phytocannabinoids, and they interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system.

Our endocannabinoid system consists of a series of neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors and proteins found in our nervous systems. Although we don’t fully understand how it works, our endocannabinoid system is thought to be involved in regulating physiological processes ranging from fertility and pregnancy to our immune systems, appetite, and mood.

There are two primary endocannabinoid receptors: cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2). Each reacts to different endocannabinoids naturally found in our bodies, including anandamide and 2-AG. Consuming cannabis floods these receptors with phytocannabinoids, which is what triggers your body’s reaction.

3 Best Cannabinoids to Supplement Your Workout

Each phytocannabinoid impacts our endocannabinoid system differently, depending on which receptors they interact with and how. Workouts involve a combination of focus, endurance, and recovery, and there’s a different cannabinoid that provides each.

Here are the cannabinoids to consider.

1. Use CBG to Improve Focus

Cannabigerol (CBG) is known as the “mother of cannabinoids” as it plays a very crucial role in the production of cannabinoids. It was first discovered in 1964, and scientists found CBGA is the first cannabinoid a budding cannabis plant produces as it matures and begins to flower. When exposed to UV light, CBGA converts into THCA and CBDA, which are the precursors to THC and CBD.

Because of our focus on THC and CBD, most popular strains have a low CBG concentration. However, studies found it can be useful in treating symptoms of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Because of this, many scientists are keen on learning more about the connection between CBG and focus.

2. THC Can Increase Endurance

THC can be beneficial for endurance, however it comes with several caveats, especially when used in professional competitions which have mandatory drug testing. Although Phelps was suspended over a photo posted to social media of him holding a glass bong, Richardson was suspended for testing positive for THC during a mandatory drug test that forced her to miss the 2020 Olympics.

Still, endurance athletes anecdotally swear by THC, using it for sports like triathlons, marathons, and ultrarunning and reporting successful alleviation of pain, fatigue, and nausea. All of these can make a huge difference on whether or not you finish.

Of course, it’s important to only consume a volume of THC you can handle without danger. In the best case scenario you should only microdose, as getting high could impair your ability to safely workout.

3. How CBD Helps Recovery

Stretching both before and after is the most important part of any workout, as it helps your body recover. Recovery is when your body heals itself from the damage put on it by your workout, tearing muscles and rebuilding them even stronger. This is what CBD was made for–reducing inflammation and helping you to relax.

Studies show that the use of CBD has significant effects on the recovery of muscular damage. It also helps to regulate sleep and keep you calm. So although it won’t directly improve your performance on the field or in the gym, it can play a vital role in keeping you healthy enough to continue exercising and competing for years to come.

How to Use Cannabis for Workouts

Now that you know which cannabinoids to look for, it’s time to discuss how to use cannabis for workouts. Smoking and vaping are not the best ways, as they can impede your cardiovascular health. Instead, consider edibles like gummies (which also provide a helpful sugar boost) as an alternative. There are also a variety of tinctures, dissolvable strips, and pills, as well as RSO that can be eaten directly.

Topicals are another way to benefit from cannabinoids without consuming cannabis. Various balms, lotions, and oils can be applied externally and directly on any aching muscles or sore joints to absorb the ingredients through your skin and lead to a faster solution.

Here are some more best practices for cannabis consumption in Massachusetts.

Get the Best Cannabis for Workouts

Although cannabis can be helpful for workouts, not all products are created equally. You need cannabis you can trust is made with the highest quality ingredients in a cleanroom environment. That’s what we do at Hennep.

We have a vast selection of locally sourced products that are environmentally friendly. And we believe in full transparency while also helping the community in a positive way. Check out our menu online or stop by our dispensary to talk to a knowledgeable budtender about how to use cannabis for workouts.