The influence of cannabis on physical activity is marked by widespread assumptions and contradictions. On one hand, it’s perceived as a performance-enhancing substance, banned in various sports, and on the other, it’s seen as a relaxation aid for those with a sedentary lifestyle.
Recent findings challenge these perspectives. In states where cannabis is legalized in the US, surveys indicate that users are more physically active than non-users.
Although there’s no direct evidence supporting the immediate enhancement of athletic performance through recreational cannabis use, researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder (UCB) propose that it might enhance the enjoyment of exercise.
In a recent experiment, 42 regular cannabis-using adult runners from Colorado participated in a treadmill run. The study monitored their physical and mental states before, during, and after the run. In a separate session, participants could choose to use either THC or CBD products before a similar run.
THC, responsible for cannabis’s psychoactive effects, and CBD, known for muscle-relaxing and anti-inflammatory effects without the typical mind-altering effects, were both examined. Psychologist Laurel Gibson from UCB states that using cannabis before exercise seems to boost positive mood and enjoyment, but THC might make exercise feel more strenuous.
Despite limited research into the acute effects of cannabis on exercise, recent legalization in states like Colorado allows scientists to conduct observational experiments. The focus is on individuals who report enjoying running while under the influence.
An ultrarunner in the study, Heather Masshoudi, notes similarities between a natural ‘runner’s high’ and the experience of being high on cannabis during shorter runs.
Studies link intense exercise to the endocannabinoid system in the brain, the same system affected by cannabis. In 2023, UCB psychologists found that running high often led to a slower yet more enjoyable exercise for regular cannabis users.
The latest study supports these findings, showing that running high is more enjoyable, even if THC makes the exercise feel somewhat more challenging. Participants using only CBD found the run more enjoyable without perceiving increased exertion.
It’s important to note that this doesn’t imply a recommendation for using THC or CBD before exercise due to potential risks. In the study, THC users experienced an increased heart rate while high, suggesting caution regarding cardiovascular health.
Neuroscientist Angela Bryan urges caution in making broad recommendations but believes further exploration is warranted. Ethical considerations limited the study’s design, and more rigorous studies are needed to confirm these initial observations. Despite positive aspects, it’s clear from the research that cannabis isn’t a performance-enhancing drug, leaving the debate open on its potential role in post-exercise recovery.
