Cannabis isn’t just for kicking back anymore—it’s making its way into the fitness and wellness world, too. Whether it’s THC for a pre-workout boost or CBD for post-workout recovery, more and more fitness enthusiasts are turning to cannabis to help with everything from motivation to muscle soreness. But does it actually improve athletic performance, or is it just another fitness trend? In this blog, we’ll break down how THC and CBD can impact your workout, recovery, and overall fitness routine.
Does THC Affect Your Workout?
When it comes to cannabis and exercise, THC tends to get the most attention. That’s because THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis, and it can affect your mood, focus, and how you experience pain during a workout.
Focus and Motivation
One of the ways THC can affect your workout is by shifting your mental state. Some people find that THC helps them get “in the zone” by boosting focus and concentration. This can be especially helpful for activities like yoga or weightlifting, where staying mentally engaged is key to getting the most out of your workout.
Energy Levels
When it comes to energy, THC’s effects can vary. Some strains might give you that extra boost and make you feel more amped up before a workout. However, this depends a lot on the strain. Sativa-dominant strains tend to have more uplifting effects, while Indicas might leave you feeling more relaxed (which is great for winding down, but not so much for high-energy sessions).
Pain Management
THC is well-known for its pain-relieving properties, which can come in handy during your workout. If you’re feeling sore or dealing with discomfort, THC might help dull that pain, letting you power through tough sets or long endurance sessions. Some athletes even use THC post-workout to help manage soreness and inflammation, speeding up recovery.
The Downsides
That said, there are a few potential downsides to keep in mind. THC can disrupt your coordination and motor skills, making specific workouts—like heavy lifting or high-intensity sports—riskier. Also, if you go for higher doses or more sedative strains, you might feel a drop in motivation, which is not what you want before hitting the gym.
Does CBD Help with Workout Recovery?
While THC might get all the attention during a workout, CBD shines when it comes to recovery. Since CBD doesn’t have the psychoactive effects of THC, it offers a more practical boost, especially for athletes looking to recover and perform at their best.
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
CBD is a powerhouse when it comes to reducing inflammation. After a challenging workout, your muscles can get sore and inflamed, slowing recovery. CBD helps to calm that inflammation, speeding up your recovery and helping you get back to training faster and with less discomfort. Many fitness enthusiasts use CBD topically—like in creams or balms—to target specific sore spots directly.
Relaxation and Sleep
We all know that good sleep is key to muscle recovery, which is where CBD can help. It promotes relaxation and supports better sleep so your body can repair itself while resting. This is especially helpful if you’re the type to struggle with winding down after an intense session.
Stress Relief
Exercise can create physical and mental stress, and sometimes, that stress can hold you back from reaching your fitness goals. CBD is known for its ability to help reduce anxiety and stress, making it easier to relax and recover after your workout. This can help keep you in the right mindset to continue crushing your fitness goals!
THC vs. CBD: Which Is Better for Fitness & Recovery?
So, which one is better for your fitness routine—THC or CBD? The answer depends on what you’re aiming for.
THC for Pre-Workout:
If you’re looking for a boost in focus, pain relief, or energy, THC might be your go-to before hitting the gym. It’s great for getting you “in the zone” and pushing through those tough sets.
CBD for Post-Workout:
After your workout, CBD steps up to help with recovery. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to promote better sleep, it’s perfect for reducing soreness and speeding up recovery.
Combining THC and CBD:
Some fitness enthusiasts like to take a mixed approach, using both THC and CBD. A balanced 1:1 ratio can give you the pain-relief benefits of THC while still offering the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD. Plus, it may help avoid some of the coordination issues THC can cause. You can experiment with different ratios to see what works best for you and your fitness goals.
Tips for Incorporating Cannabis into Your Fitness Routine
If you’re new to incorporating cannabis into your fitness routine, here are some tips to help you get started:
Start Low, Go Slow:
Cannabis affects everyone differently, so it’s a good idea to start with a small dose and see how your body responds. For THC, try starting with a low dose (5-10 mg) and adjust as needed. With CBD, a typical starting dose is around 10-15 mg.
Choose the Right Strain or Product:
When picking cannabis products, it’s essential to select the right strain or product based on what you want to achieve. Sativa strains are usually a better fit for pre-workout energy, while Indica strains are great for post-workout relaxation. For CBD, topicals (like balms and creams) are perfect for targeting sore muscles, while tinctures or edibles can support overall recovery.
Timing and Dosage:
- Pre-Workout: If you’re using THC, take it about 30-60 minutes before your workout to feel the effects. Keep in mind how the strain impacts your energy levels.
- Post-Workout: For recovery, CBD can be used right after your workout or in the evening to help you unwind and get a good night’s sleep.
Reverie 73’s Cannabis Products for Your Fitness Goals
At Reverie 73, we offer a variety of cannabis products to match your fitness needs. Whether you want a THC product to amp up your energy and focus before a workout or CBD to soothe sore muscles and speed up recovery, we have you covered.
Ready to see what cannabis can do for your fitness journey? Contact us or drop by Reverie 73 for expert advice and high-quality cannabis products that align with your fitness goals—whether you’re training for a big event or just working on your personal fitness routine.