Buzz
Here’s a quick list of activities to avoid when high: driving, shopping online, watching Pixar movies, sending money through Venmo, or offering advice. But what about activities like jogging or weightlifting?
While individual reactions to cannabis vary (some people tolerate edibles better than others) and research on the topic is still emerging, there are key points to consider before exercising under the influence.
Improved focus could be a potential benefit
You may have come across claims about cannabis’s remarkable advantages, such as enhanced focus, stamina, performance, and reduced muscle soreness. Dr. June Chin, an integrative cannabis physician at MedLeaf RX, suggests that many of these benefits might be indirect—particularly with CBD products, which could alleviate inflammation, thereby improving focus or enabling harder workouts by easing persistent discomfort.
However, the scientific backing for these anti-inflammatory properties remains limited. A 2016 study on rats indicated that CBD might help relieve arthritis pain and inflammation (in rats, not humans). Despite this, numerous professional athletes swear by CBD products, crediting them with enhanced performance on the field and court.
Various cannabis strains might yield different effects, though this hasn’t been conclusively proven.
Chin explains that cannabis strains vary significantly. “Strains are largely a marketing term; in the medical community, we use terms like chemical-variants or chemovars,” she noted. “Most cannabis chemovars are hybrids of sativa and indica. Pure sativa or indica plants are rare, but sativa-dominant or indica-dominant strains exist. These plants have distinct cannabinoid profiles, and indica-dominant strains can induce a more relaxing or sedative effect, often referred to as ‘couch-lock.’ Conversely, sativa strains are marketed as more energizing and stimulating.”
You might discover that a sativa-based strain is more suitable for a gym session, so consider this when visiting a dispensary. However, research in this area is sparse; some experts argue that the distinction lacks scientific validity. (One study even revealed that over 80 cannabis varieties tested were often mislabeled regarding their indica and sativa content—meaning you can’t always trust the product’s description.)
CBD could be more effective for intense workouts
THC, a key chemical in cannabis known for inducing a high, may not be ideal for weightlifting, according to Chin. Its sedative effects might leave you feeling overly relaxed and unfocused. In contrast, CBD products contain minimal to no THC.
“My athletic clients often choose CBD for workouts, though it varies by activity,” she explained. “Some yogis I work with find that a small amount of THC helps them deepen their stretches, calm their minds, and relax their nervous systems, enhancing focus. However, for high-intensity activities like Soulcycle or Crossfit, THC isn’t recommended due to the risk of losing balance or coordination.”
If you’re deciding between THC and CBD before a high-intensity workout, CBD is likely the better choice to stay alert and steady. For more on CBD’s potential anxiety-reducing effects, explore our detailed analysis of relevant studies.
Take it slow during your initial cannabis-enhanced workout
If you’re trying cannabis to boost workout focus, Chin suggests starting with sublingual tinctures—drops placed under the tongue—as they act quickly, taking effect in about 10 minutes. Avoid edibles for your first time, as they can take up to two hours to work, which isn’t ideal for exercise timing.
For those using CBD to reduce inflammation, experimenting with timing is key. “If you train in the morning, consider taking it the night before,” she advised. “Others prefer taking it post-workout to minimize next-day soreness.”
Regardless of your approach, start with a light workout to avoid overexertion, Chin emphasized. “If it’s your first time, skip the long run or intense Crossfit session,” she cautioned. “Some users experience nausea or dizziness with CBD, and you don’t want to be mid-mountain bike ride feeling unwell.”
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