How cannabis may benefit runners

The relationship between cannabis and physical exercise has been studied with increasing interest over the past decade, as more countries have legalized the recreational drug (Canada joined that list in 2018).

Despite weed still being prohibited in competition (though there are efforts being made to remove it from the NCAA and WADA banned substances lists), one study in 2020 found that one in four athletes has consumed the drug in the past year. Runners enjoy cannabis for a variety of reasons, and while there’s no evidence to suggest that it is performance-enhancing, there are several proven benefits. If you’re celebrating 4/20 today, you can get high knowing there may actually be some recovery benefits, too.

Recovery

Widely regarded for its therapeutic properties, CBD (cannabidiol) is the hemp-derived version of the drug, which contains less than 0.3 per cent tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and therefore doesn’t have mind-altering effects. For runners, topical CBD creams or balms can help promote recovery after a hard workout by helping reduce inflammation and soreness. One study from the National Institute of Health says “there are significant gaps in knowledge of the physiological pathways that explain the role of CBD in sports performance,” but anecdotal evidence from athletes themselves indicates it’s a worthy alternative to other over-the-counter drugs.

More specific strains of cannabidiol, such as CBG, offer their own recovery-boosting qualities. Enhancing levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide (a.k.a. the “bliss molecule”), one study in the British Journal of Pharmacology suggested that athletes may observe a gentle full-body buzz that could promote relaxation.

The ever-expanding offerings of cannabis products on the market today make it easy to choose how you partake: from edibles to drinks, there are several options that don’t require you to smoke or vape the product.

It can make running more fun

Contrary to stereotypes that cannabis use makes you sleepy, many runners find that, depending on the strain they’re consuming, the drug may promote mental clarity and provide positive psychological benefits when used during a run.

In a story published by The Globe and Mail last year, one personal trainer and health educator from Toronto shared that “Marijuana can have a focusing effect, too, making it easier to get through workouts without distractions. Those are the big benefits, in terms of performance.”

As with any substance, runners should experiment with small doses when introducing cannabis for the first time. Consumption method and psychological results can vary from person to person, and cannabis is not right for everyone.