In the past, getting stoned before working out was not considered a good idea. In fact, both were thought to be diametric. People could not digest the idea of a stoner exercising or hitting gyms. Primarily it was due to stereotyping cannabis users and a lack of awareness about its medicinal properties.
Recently, various scientific studies have proven that cannabis is not all about getting high and intoxicated. It also possesses several health benefits people did not know about in the past. The substantial evidence of cannabis’ medicinal properties has changed the world.
With various states and countries legalizing the recreational use of cannabis, the idea of “getting stoned before getting toned” is gaining popularity. While many users are following the concept, others want to dig deeper. Unfortunately, to date, we lack ample evidence backed by scientific research in a significant area.
However, we can use the available knowledge favored by scientific investigation to answer whether we should use cannabis before a workout or not. Moreover, there is also a considerable number of surveys to justify or disapprove of the idea.
Cannabis as a Pre-Workout
Cannabis contains two widely known components; THC and CBD. Both have different effects on the body. Tetrahydrocannabinol possesses hallucinatory properties, while cannabidiol is considered a medicinal component. Both can affect the quality and quantity of exercise in different ways.
Effect of THC
Being a primary psychoactive component, THC can dramatically affect training if used as a pre-workout. Tetrahydrocannabinol is considered suitable before and after a workout due to two main reasons:
1. It can boost your efforts, increase energy, improve focus, and enhance euphoric feelings.
2. THC might also help speed up post-gym recovery and induce sleep after the session.
Therefore, many athletes and gym-goers claim that using cannabis before a workout helps decrease stress and go for longer sessions. Hence, some well-known professionals like Michael Phelps and Ricky Williams smoked pot and advocated its use before the game.
Effect of CBD
Another important cannabinoid in cannabis is CBD. Unlike THC, cannabidiol does not create a high sensation. Instead, it is responsible for the principal medicinal properties of cannabis. The analgesic and anti-inflammatory characteristics of CBD make it an excellent pre-workout. People who have used cannabis before workout claim a fast muscle recovery.
Cannabidiol has the following benefits when used before working out:
1. CBD is suitable for reducing muscle tension which helps muscles recover fast after a workout.
2. Runners often complain about joint inflammation. CBD might be instrumental in decreasing inflammation.
3. Cannabidiol is excellent for managing post-workout pain.
4. As an anti-catabolic compound, CBD helps build lean muscles by reducing the production of cortisol, a stress hormone.
5. Like THC, CBD is also suitable for improving calmness and concentration, however, without creating the high.
Therefore, based on the above assumptions, cannabis might be helpful if you use it before exercising.
Risk Factors
There are also some risk factors associated with cannabis as a pre-workout. Some are discussed below:
1. Some experts believe that using cannabis before a workout might damage your lungs. However, there is no substantial evidence to prove the side effect.
2. A long –term use might cause chronic depression and lead to decreased motivation and fitness.
3. THC might increase the likelihood of motor impairment when used before strenuous exercise.
Final Words
Establishing the potential benefits and side effects of cannabis usage before exercise is challenging. Anecdotal evidence from various surveys and research says you should use cannabis before working out. However, it would be best to consult an expert if you suffer from a chronic condition.
留言