Is Cannabis the New Gym Buddy?

In the world of fitness, people are always chasing the next edge—whether it’s a cleaner diet, a more efficient routine, or a new way to get in the zone. Lately, a surprising trend has been making waves: smoking weed before working out. It’s bold. It’s controversial. And depending on who you ask, it’s either genius or completely absurd.

But as cannabis laws continue to evolve and the stigma fades, more fitness enthusiasts are openly experimenting with how weed impacts their workouts. So what’s the truth? Is it helpful, harmful, or just hype?

Let’s break it down.

Cannabis and the “Runner’s High”: A New Kind of Buzz

You’ve probably heard of the “runner’s high”—that euphoric feeling you get after intense exercise. Interestingly, it’s believed to be linked to your body’s endocannabinoid system, the same system cannabis interacts with.

Some users say that smoking weed before a workout boosts their mood, improves their focus, and even reduces performance anxiety. Jessamyn Stanley, a yoga instructor and advocate, puts it simply: “Using weed before a workout is a great way to get out of your head about what’s to come.”

In other words, weed helps you chill out and show up. And for a lot of folks, that’s half the battle.

The Potential Perks: Mood, Motivation, and Pain Tolerance

So, does weed really help you work out better?

Let’s look at some of the commonly reported benefits:

• Mood enhancement: THC (the psychoactive compound in weed) stimulates dopamine—the feel-good chemical. That means you might actually enjoy your workout more.
• Increased motivation: For people who dread exercise, a small amount of THC can turn that mental resistance into curiosity or even excitement.
• Pain relief: Weed has been used for centuries to ease pain. When you’re sore, tight, or pushing your limits, it might help you go just a bit further.
• Improved focus: Repetitive exercises like running or cycling become more meditative for some users when high, helping them tune out distractions.

And let’s not forget recovery—Dr. Gary Starr, medical director of FOCUS, notes that cannabis may help with post-workout inflammation. That could mean less soreness the next day, and more consistency in your training schedule.

Video: How Smoking Weed Affects Your Health

The Science Behind It: What Do Studies Actually Say?

Personal stories aside, what does research say?

One 2017 study in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport concluded that while cannabis doesn’t directly enhance performance, it could help people mentally prepare for physical activity.

A different survey published in Nature revealed that around 70% of cannabis users in legal states felt that it made exercise more enjoyable. Even more interesting? Many of them spent more time working out than those who didn’t use cannabis at all.

However, here’s the catch: these studies are limited. They’re mostly self-reported, small-scale, and can’t prove causation. So while the anecdotes are compelling, more robust research is needed before we crown weed the next big fitness supplement.

The Not-So-Good News: Risks and Side Effects to Watch Out For

Let’s be real—smoking weed before a workout isn’t for everyone.

Here are a few key risks to keep in mind:

• Increased heart rate: THC can make your heart race, which isn’t ideal if you already have cardiovascular issues.
• Impaired coordination: Weed can slow your reflexes and judgment. Not great if your workout involves heavy lifting or sharp movements.
• Dehydration: THC affects how your body uses glucose, which can throw off hydration levels. That’s a big deal when you’re sweating hard.
• Dosing challenges: Everyone reacts differently to cannabis. Too much, and your “uplifted” session turns into a sluggish mess.

In short? Go low and slow—especially if it’s your first time combining cannabis with exercise.

CBD: A Calmer, Clearer Alternative

Not sure about the psychoactive high from THC? You might want to explore CBD—the non-intoxicating cousin of THC.

CBD has been praised for its anti-inflammatory, anxiety-reducing, and pain-relieving effects. It won’t make you feel “stoned,” but it might still give you the benefits you’re after.

Kendra Freeman of Mendi, a CBD company geared toward athletes, says it best: “CBD won’t make you floaty, so you might find it easier to stay focused during your workout.”

Whether it’s CBD oil, gummies, or muscle rubs—there’s a growing market for cannabis-based products that support fitness without the high.

So, Should You Work Out While High?

Here’s the honest answer: it depends on you.

If you’re curious, start with a small amount, choose a familiar activity, and listen to your body. Avoid complex movements that require precision, and always stay hydrated.

Talk to your doctor, especially if you’re managing medical conditions or medications that might interact with cannabis. And remember—what works for your gym buddy might not work for you.

Video: Does Smoking Weed Affect Gains?

Conclusion: Know Your Limits, Find Your Balance

Using cannabis during a workout isn’t just a trend—it’s a personal choice rooted in curiosity, experimentation, and finding what makes exercise sustainable and enjoyable.

For some, it offers the mental clarity and motivation to get moving. For others, it’s not a great fit—and that’s perfectly okay.

The key? Stay informed, stay safe, and know your limits. Whether you’re chasing a runner’s high or just trying to make exercise more bearable, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But for those who find that cannabis enhances their fitness journey, it just might be the boost they didn’t know they needed.