Find out how smoking weed affects your body, energy, and performance when exercising.

Maximizing performance and increasing enjoyment during workouts is an ongoing goal for athletes, gym enthusiasts, and casual runners alike. From structured training routines to meticulously planned diets, those passionate about fitness are constantly on the lookout for innovative ways to improve and reach their peak performance. As laws around cannabis use continue to change and public attitudes shift, some fitness enthusiasts are now considering the potential benefits of incorporating weed into their workout routines. But is this just a trend, or does cannabis truly have the potential to improve physical performance and enhance the exercise experience?

The Fit High: Can Cannabis Enhance Your Run?

Although research remains largely inconclusive on whether smoking weed directly enhances physical performance, many users have reported positive effects on mental strength and motivation when exercising. Some individuals claim that being high during a workout helps sharpen their focus, lower anxiety levels, and increase the overall enjoyment of physical activity. Cannabis has increasingly been viewed as a tool for achieving a similar elevated mental state often associated with the “runner’s high.” Jessamyn Stanley—a yoga instructor, writer, and body positivity advocate—highlights the psychological benefits of using cannabis before exercising. “Using weed before a workout is a great way to get out of your head about what’s to come,” she says. For many, the anticipation of an intense workout can be mentally draining and create negative associations with exercise. By calming intrusive thoughts and promoting relaxation, cannabis may help break through that mental barrier, encouraging a more positive and engaged workout experience.

Boosted Vibes: How Weed May Improve Mood, Focus, and Recovery

Some advocates believe that cannabis may offer benefits that directly support athletic performance and recovery. One key advantage is its ability to enhance mood, largely due to the psychoactive component THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC stimulates the release of dopamine—a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward—resulting in feelings of euphoria, calm, and reduced anxiety.

This uplift in mood can make exercise feel more enjoyable and less like a burden, which may help boost motivation and encourage long-term commitment to a fitness routine. While THC is known to occasionally impair cognitive abilities, some users report improved concentration and mental clarity during repetitive or endurance-based activities, such as long-distance running or cycling. This sharpened focus can support mental stamina, which is critical in such workouts.

Cannabis is also widely recognized for its analgesic effects. By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, it may help lower pain sensitivity and reduce inflammation, enabling individuals to work out longer and with greater comfort. Additionally, Dr. Gary Starr, medical director of FOCUS—an international non-profit dedicated to cannabis quality standards—notes that marijuana could potentially help moderate the body’s inflammatory response following intense exercise.

Still Under Review: What We Know (and Don’t) About Cannabis in Fitness

Although many individuals share positive personal experiences about using cannabis during exercise, the scientific evidence supporting its effects on physical performance is still sparse and inconclusive. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport concluded that while cannabis is unlikely to enhance physical athletic performance, it may play a valuable role in improving mental readiness and focus.

Additionally, a survey featured in the journal Nature found that around 70% of respondents living in states where recreational cannabis is legal reported that being high made exercising more enjoyable. The same survey also indicated that those who consumed cannabis before or after working out tended to spend more time exercising compared to non-users.

However, it’s important to recognize the limitations of this research. Many of these studies are observational, which means they can identify correlations but cannot prove direct cause-and-effect relationships. Furthermore, small sample sizes in these studies make it difficult to draw broad conclusions that apply to the general population.

Safe Use Strategies: Managing Cannabis Risks in Fitness Routines

Before incorporating cannabis into your fitness routine, it’s important to be aware of several potential risks. One key concern is its effect on heart rate—cannabis can cause an increase in heart rate, which may pose dangers for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or irregular heart rhythms. Additionally, THC can impair motor skills and decision-making, raising the risk of injuries, especially during activities that require precision and coordination.

Dehydration is another issue to watch for. Meryl Montgomery, co-founder of Barbari, stresses the need to stay well-hydrated when using cannabis, pointing to THC’s influence on glucose metabolism as a contributing factor. Lastly, finding the right dosage is a highly personal process, influenced by variables such as body weight, tolerance level, and the specific cannabis strain. Most experts recommend starting with a “low and slow” approach to avoid overconsumption and negative side effects.

Natural Relief: The Athletic Appeal of CBD

For those interested in the benefits of cannabis but wanting to avoid the psychoactive effects of THC, cannabidiol (CBD) presents a compelling alternative. CBD is a non-intoxicating compound found in cannabis that has demonstrated various therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Kendra Freeman, president of business and product development at Mendi—a CBD brand focused on athletes—recommends incorporating CBD, especially for individuals uncertain about how THC affects them. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t cause a “floaty” or euphoric feeling, which may help users maintain better focus during their workouts.

The Bottom Line: Stay Informed and Careful

If you’re thinking about incorporating cannabis into your workout routine, it’s crucial to move forward carefully and mindfully. Begin with a low dose, listen closely to how your body responds, and steer clear of exercises that demand sharp coordination or fast reactions. Additionally, consulting a healthcare provider is important to understand any possible risks or interactions with existing health issues or medications.