With the increasing legalization of cannabis, a fascinating trend has emerged, as individuals intertwine cannabis consumption with physical exercise. 

A recent study entitled How and why adults use cannabis during physical activity by Whitney L. Ogle, Gregg J. Gold, Lukas E. Coppen, and Claire Copriviza  for Cal Poly – Humboldt aimed to delve into this phenomenon, exploring the motivations behind it, the diverse range of physical activities involved, and the perceived benefits and unanticipated experiences reported by users.

Another study conducted by CU Boulder, The New Runner’s High? Examining Relationships Between Cannabis Use and Exercise Behavior in States With Legalized Cannabis, also shed light on the connection between marijuana consumption and exercise motivation. 

The study found that individuals who enjoyed cannabis, either before or after their workouts, were more likely to be active than those who did not. This suggests that cannabis can actually contribute to increased motivation to engage in physical exercise.

Angela Bryan, a senior author of the study and a professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at CU Boulder, highlighted that the stereotype associating cannabis use with laziness and a lack of physical activity does not align with the study’s findings. Bryan stated, “There is a stereotype that cannabis use leads people to be lazy and couch-locked and not-physically active, but these data suggest this is not the case.”

The study conducted by Cal Poly and the CU Boulder research collectively challenge the prevailing assumptions regarding the relationship between cannabis use and physical activity. The results emphasize that individuals who incorporate cannabis into their exercise routine perceive it as a means to enhance their focus, enjoyment, and mind-body connection during physical activity.

The survey conducted by Cal Poly revealed that among the participants, hiking (60%), yoga (58%), and aerobic machines (50%) were the most frequently reported modes of exercise while under the influence of cannabis. These activities align with the findings of the CU Boulder study, suggesting that cannabis consumption may indeed contribute to increased motivation for engaging in these physical activities.

While the CU Boulder study and the survey conducted by Cal Poly provide valuable insights into the motivations and perceived benefits associated with combining cannabis and exercise, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of these studies, including the relatively small sample sizes and the self-reported nature of the data.

The collective findings of these studies emphasize the need for further research to explore the complex relationship between cannabis use and exercise. Future investigations should delve deeper into understanding the physiological, psychological, and performance-related effects of cannabis on various forms of physical activity.

The combined insights of the studies challenge existing stereotypes and highlight the motivations and benefits associated with combining cannabis and exercise. 

The findings suggest that cannabis use may enhance motivation and engagement in physical activity. For those who use cannabis as part of their exercise and health regimen, the findings come as no surprise.

A mountain of anecdotal evidence and personal success stories suggest that the therapeutic nature of cannabis and its interactions with the endocannabinoid system promote healing and a better overall feeling of wellness in most cannabis consumers. 

With the rise of CBD and hemp products for wellness use and medical marijuana legalization, the vast majority of the health-conscious public seems to be leaning into the use of cannabis for wellness.

What do you think?

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