Working Out While High

Key Takeaways:

Balanced Benefits & Risks: Cannabis can enhance focus and reduce pain during workouts, but it may also impair coordination and increase heart rate.
Strain Matters: Sativa strains may energize workouts, while CBD is ideal for recovery and relaxation.
Safety First: Start with low doses, avoid high-risk exercises, and listen to your body’s signals during cannabis-enhanced workouts.

Have you ever considered hitting the gym or unrolling your yoga mat after consuming cannabis? For some, it’s a game-changing boost to focus and relaxation; for others, it’s a recipe for disaster. As cannabis continues to shift from taboo to mainstream, the conversation around combining it with physical activity has gained momentum. But is working out while high really enhancing performance, or is it just a passing trend?

At Soul, we know a thing or two about the relationship between cannabis and wellness. Founded by a world-ranked boxer and a certified nutritionist, we’ve dedicated ourselves to crafting natural, transparent, and effective products designed to support your body and mind. We’re not just part of the conversation — we’re leading it.

In this article, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of working out while high, offering science-backed insights and practical tips to help you decide if this trend aligns with your fitness goals.

How Cannabis Interacts With The Body During Exercise

When cannabis meets exercise, the effects can vary widely depending on the strain, dosage, and individual tolerance. The two most well-known compounds in cannabis, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), play distinct roles in how the body responds during physical activity.

THC: Known for its psychoactive effects, THC can alter perception, reduce pain sensitivity, and in some cases, increase focus. However, it may also impair coordination, balance, and reaction time — factors that are crucial in certain workouts.
CBD: Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t produce a “high.” Instead, it’s celebrated for its potential to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote relaxation, making it a popular choice for post-workout recovery.

The Endocannabinoid System And Exercise

Cannabis interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates mood, pain, appetite, and stress responses. Interestingly, exercise itself stimulates the ECS, often producing what’s known as the “runner’s high.” When cannabis is added to the mix, it can either amplify or disrupt this natural effect, depending on individual biochemistry and consumption habits.

While some people experience increased focus and decreased discomfort during a workout, others might feel overly lethargic or anxious. The key lies in knowing your body, starting with low doses, and understanding how different cannabinoids affect you personally.

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Pros Of Working Out While High:

Pain Management: Cannabis may reduce muscle soreness and discomfort during endurance exercises.
Enhanced Focus: Certain strains improve focus and mind-body connection, ideal for yoga or cycling.
Increased Enjoyment: Cannabis can make workouts feel less like a chore by boosting mood.
Reduced Anxiety: CBD-dominant strains may ease performance-related anxiety in social settings.
Improved Recovery: CBD helps reduce inflammation and muscle tension post-workout.
Creativity Boost: Cannabis might spark creative ideas for workout routines.

Cons Of Working Out While High:

Impaired Coordination: THC can affect balance and motor control, increasing injury risk.
Increased Heart Rate: Elevated heart rate may pose risks during intense cardio exercises.
Reduced Motivation: Some strains may cause lethargy or lack of drive.
Anxiety Or Paranoia: High doses of THC might trigger anxious feelings.
Slower Reaction Time: Cannabis can delay reflexes, affecting performance in quick-paced activities.
Legal Concerns: Cannabis use may conflict with local laws or gym policies.
Overexertion Risk: Diminished pain perception might lead to ignoring physical limits.
Individual Variability: Effects vary widely based on dosage, tolerance, and body chemistry.

Safety Tips For Working Out While High

If you’re considering integrating cannabis into your workout routine, safety should always come first. While cannabis can offer benefits like reduced pain and increased focus, it also carries risks such as impaired coordination and increased heart rate. Below are practical safety tips to help you navigate the experience responsibly.

1. Start Low And Go Slow: If you’re new to combining cannabis with exercise, start with a low dose and allow time to gauge how it affects your body and mind. For edibles or tinctures, remember they can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in. Avoid the temptation to take more before the initial dose takes effect. Tip: Microdosing (a small, controlled dose) is often the safest approach for beginners.

2. Choose The Right Strain: Different cannabis strains have different effects. Sativa-dominant strains often provide an energetic and uplifting effect, suitable for activities like running or cycling. Indica-dominant strains tend to relax the body, which might be better for low-impact workouts like yoga or stretching. CBD-dominant products provide anti-inflammatory and calming benefits without the high, making them ideal for recovery. Tip: Experiment during non-critical workout sessions to see which strain works best for you.

3. Stay Hydrated: Cannabis can cause dry mouth and dehydration, which can become more pronounced during physical exertion. Keep a water bottle nearby and make a conscious effort to stay hydrated before, during, and after your workout. Tip: Electrolyte drinks can also help replenish lost minerals from sweating.

4. Avoid Complex Or High-Risk Exercises: Cannabis can impair coordination, balance, and reaction time, making complex movements or high-risk activities more dangerous. Avoid heavy lifting, gymnastics, or any workout that requires quick reflexes and split-second decisions. Tip: Stick to low-impact activities like yoga, walking, stretching, or light cardio if you’re new to cannabis workouts.

5. Workout In A Safe Environment: Choose a familiar and safe workout space, preferably at home, a private gym, or a low-traffic area. Avoid crowded gyms or environments where impaired coordination could pose a risk to others. Tip: If you’re exercising outdoors, ensure the area is well-lit and free from potential hazards.

6. Listen To Your Body: Cannabis can dull pain perception, which might cause you to push your body beyond its natural limits. If you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or overly fatigued, stop immediately and take a break. Tip: Pay attention to subtle signs of overexertion and know when to call it a day.

7. Don’t Mix Substances: Avoid combining cannabis with other substances, such as alcohol or prescription medication, without consulting a healthcare professional. Mixing substances can amplify side effects and increase health risks. Tip: Keep it simple—cannabis and exercise should remain the only focus during your session.

8. Time Your Consumption Wisely: The timing of consumption plays a significant role in how cannabis affects your workout. For activities requiring focus and energy, consider consuming cannabis 15–30 minutes before exercise (if smoking/vaping) or 1–2 hours before (if ingesting edibles). Tip: Avoid consuming large doses right before high-intensity workouts.

9. Have A Buddy System: If you’re new to exercising while high, consider working out with a trusted friend who can monitor your condition and assist if necessary. Tip: Make sure your workout buddy knows you’ve consumed cannabis beforehand.

10. Know When To Stop: If at any point you feel uneasy, anxious, or physically unwell, stop your workout. There’s no shame in calling it a day and prioritizing your safety.

These tips are designed to help you approach cannabis-enhanced workouts responsibly, ensuring both safety and effectiveness in your fitness journey.

Best Types Of Workouts To Do While High

Not all workouts pair well with cannabis. The effects of cannabis—whether it's relaxation, heightened focus, or mild euphoria—tend to complement certain types of exercises better than others. Below are some of the best types of workouts to try if you're considering working out while high.

Yoga And Stretching

Cannabis and yoga have a natural synergy. The calming effects of cannabis can help deepen your focus, relax your body, and enhance the mind-body connection essential to yoga practice. Stretching routines also benefit from cannabis, as THC and CBD can help reduce muscle tension and improve flexibility.

Light Cardio (Walking, Jogging, Hiking)

Activities like walking, jogging, or hiking are low-impact and offer a repetitive rhythm that pairs well with the calming or mildly euphoric effects of cannabis. Many people report feeling “in the zone” during these activities while high, experiencing enhanced enjoyment of their surroundings and better endurance.

Swimming (Recreational, Not Competitive)

Swimming can feel incredibly meditative when paired with cannabis. The sensation of water combined with a relaxed mental state can turn an ordinary swim into a highly enjoyable and stress-relieving experience.

Weightlifting (Low To Moderate Intensity)

While heavy lifting and cannabis aren’t a great mix due to coordination risks, lighter strength training exercises can be enhanced with cannabis. It may help reduce muscle soreness during reps and keep you focused on your form.

Cycling (Casual Rides, Not Racing)

Casual bike rides, especially outdoors, can be an enjoyable cannabis-enhanced activity. Many cyclists report feeling more connected to the scenery and less focused on physical discomfort during long rides.

Dance Workouts

Whether it’s Zumba, freestyle dance, or a home dance party workout, cannabis can make dancing feel more natural and uninhibited. THC’s euphoric effects can help you let go of self-consciousness and fully enjoy the rhythm.

Mindful Workouts (Tai Chi, Qi Gong)

Cannabis, especially CBD-dominant strains, pairs well with mindful movement practices like Tai Chi or Qi Gong. These activities emphasize slow, controlled movements and focused breathing, which align well with cannabis’ calming effects.

Recovery Workouts (Foam Rolling, Mobility Drills)

Cannabis can be especially effective in post-workout recovery routines. Foam rolling, light stretching, and mobility exercises can feel less uncomfortable with the pain-relieving effects of cannabis.

Find Your Flow

The best workout while high is one that feels enjoyable, safe, and aligned with your fitness goals. Experiment with low doses, start with familiar exercises, and listen to your body as you explore this unique approach to fitness.

Final Thoughts

The relationship between cannabis and exercise is deeply personal, shaped by individual tolerance, goals, and preferences. For some, cannabis serves as a tool to heighten focus, reduce pain, and add enjoyment to their workouts. For others, it may pose challenges like impaired coordination, increased heart rate, or reduced motivation.

What remains clear is that cannabis isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for fitness enthusiasts. It requires a mindful approach—starting with low doses, choosing the right strain, and selecting appropriate workout types to ensure safety and effectiveness.

At Soul, we believe wellness is about balance, self-awareness, and making informed choices that align with your goals. Whether you're exploring cannabis for enhanced workouts, recovery support, or simply a deeper connection to your fitness routine, the key is to listen to your body and prioritize safety every step of the way.

Read also:

Frequently Asked Questions About Pros And Cons Of Working Out While High

Is it safe to work out while high?

Working out while high can be safe for some individuals, but it depends on factors like dosage, strain, and individual tolerance. It's best to start with a low dose and avoid exercises that require precise coordination or pose high injury risks.

What’s the difference between using THC and CBD for workouts?

THC is psychoactive and can alter perception, potentially reducing pain but impairing coordination. CBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and is primarily known for its anti-inflammatory and calming effects, making it ideal for recovery.

Can cannabis improve my endurance during workouts?

Some users report feeling less focused on discomfort or fatigue during prolonged cardio workouts when using cannabis. However, there’s no conclusive scientific evidence proving cannabis enhances physical endurance.

Are there specific strains better for working out?

Yes. Sativa-dominant strains are often preferred for energy and focus, while indica-dominant or CBD strains are better for relaxation, recovery, and pain relief.

Will cannabis affect my hydration levels during a workout?

Cannabis can cause dry mouth and may affect hydration levels. It’s essential to drink water before, during, and after your workout if you plan to consume cannabis.

Is it legal to consume cannabis before working out in public gyms?

Cannabis laws vary by location, and many public gyms have rules against being under the influence while using their facilities. Always check your local regulations and gym policies.

Can working out while high help with workout-related anxiety?

In some cases, cannabis, especially CBD-dominant strains, can help reduce performance anxiety and make working out in social environments feel less stressful.

Are there risks of addiction or dependency when using cannabis for workouts?

While cannabis isn’t physically addictive, some individuals may develop a psychological dependency on cannabis for motivation or relaxation during workouts. It’s essential to use it mindfully.

Can cannabis affect post-workout recovery?

Yes. CBD-rich products are known to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness, potentially speeding up recovery after intense exercise.

Should beginners try working out while high?

If you're new to both cannabis and exercise, it’s best to become comfortable with one before combining the two. Beginners should start with low doses, choose safe workout environments, and stick to low-impact activities.

Sources:

Zimmer, Sarah, and Hannah Russin. “Exercise at Night: The Pros and Cons of Nighttime Workouts.” Signos.com, Signos, 22 Aug. 2024, www.signos.com/blog/exercise-at-night.
Rios, Manoel, et al. “Pros and Cons of Two Methods of Anaerobic Alactic Energy Assessment in a High-Intensity CrossFit® Workout.” Oxygen, vol. 2, no. 4, 1 Dec. 2022, pp. 621–627, www.mdpi.com/2673-9801/2/4/42, https://doi.org/10.3390/oxygen2040042. Accessed 18 Feb. 2023.
Brolin Låftman, Sara, and Viveca Östberg. “The Pros and Cons of Social Relations: An Analysis of Adolescents’ Health Complaints.” Social Science & Medicine, vol. 63, no. 3, Aug. 2006, pp. 611–623, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2006.02.005.

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Pros And Cons Of Working Out While High