Fitness and cannabis may seem an unlikely pair, but their combination can yield unexpected benefits. Before hitting the gym, consider adding a secret element to enhance the workout session: cannabis. While certain strains induce relaxation to the point of being couch-bound, others can potentially elevate the energy levels for a workout.
Debunking the common misconception of inevitable laziness following cannabis use, this discussion explores the strains that can potentially become excellent workout companions. Give it a chance and discover how the right cannabis strain might just revolutionize workout sessions.
Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Want something amazing for your post-workout sessions?
- Understanding Cannabis & Exercise
- Is Indica or Sativa Better for Working Out?
- Why Sativa for Workouts?
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a Strain for Working Out
- Top Sativa Strains for Working Out
- The Role of CBD in Post-Workout Recovery
- Final Thoughts
- Best Strain for Working Out: Frequently Asked Questions
Key Takeaways
- Cannabis can be a valuable addition to your workout routine, with Sativa strains offering a boost in energy and focus.
- Terpene profiles that include limonene, myrcene, and caryophyllene are good choices for an energizing pre-workout sesh.
- Strains high in CBD may help post-workout recovery.
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Understanding Cannabis & Exercise
Before you roll your eyes, let’s get into the science of it all and lay a foundation of knowledge to empower cannabis connoisseurs and weed newbies alike. Cannabis is filled with over 100 cannabinoids, but the two main players are THC and CBD.
THC is known for getting you “high.” It’s responsible for the giggles, the euphoria, the munchies, the energy, and yes, even the couchlocking. On the other hand, CBD is a non-intoxicating and non-psychoactive compound that leads to a mellow experience, which may help you feel relaxed and recovered.
So, how do these cannabinoids fit into your workout routine? If you take into account balance and timing, many users have found that lighting up before (or after) a workout can help ease pre-workout jitters, enhance focus, and some users have even reported that lighting up has contributed to reduced pain following their workout. Forget about getting stoned and hitting the gym, consuming cannabis for exercise is more about finding the perfect complement to your fitness goals.
Is Indica or Sativa Better for Working Out?
There are two main types of cannabis strains: Indica and Sativa. While Indica strains are more relaxing, kind of like a relaxing spa day, Sativa is better known for its uplifting and energizing properties. Taking this into account, Indica is your best bet if you’re looking to wind down and soothe the body and mind after a workout, while Sativa is the perfect companion if you’re looking to power through workouts.
Why Sativa for Workouts?
If you’re interested in lighting up before exercising, Sativa is your go-to choice for a pre-workout boost. These daytime strains tend to have higher levels of psychoactive THC, which can provide a boost of motivation, focus, and energy that can kickstart your fitness objectives. Plus, being in the zone and full of energy can make working out more engaging and enjoyable, as you’re aware of your body and mind while you hit the dumbbells or go for a run.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Strain for Working Out
Before you light up a joint in workout clothes, there are some factors to consider when picking out your perfect exercise strain:
- Knowing how much THC and CBD are in each strain can help personalize your experience, as you can pick your desired level of psychoactivity. If you’re looking for an energizing boost, go for strains high in THC, while strains with a high CBD content are the choice if you’re looking for a more mellow experience.
- Another way to personalize your cannabis workout experience is to find out which terpenes are present in each strain, as these are responsible for a lot of the effects felt. Strains high in limonene and pinene are perfect for uplifting and energizing effects.
- While lighting up can boost your workout, it’s also important to consider your personal tolerance level. If you’re a beginner, you might want to go for strains lower in THC. Otherwise, you might find yourself way too high to be productive.
- Your workout preferences also come into play: high-intensity activities like lifting weights and running a couple of miles might require Sativa strains, while post-workout recovery and mellow exercise like yoga pair well with Indica strains.
Top Sativa Strains for Working Out
Durban Poison
Hailing from the sprawling plains of South Africa, Durban Poison is as pure of a Sativa strain as they come, renowned for its energizing properties. The earthy and spicy flavors make it a delicious choice, while a terpene profile of terpinolene, myrcene, and pinene makes it the perfect motivational coach if you’re looking for a burst of energy and sharpened focus. If this sounds like your cup of tea, grab some Durban Poison from CanEx.
Zkittlez
Zkittles is a colorful and sweet-smelling strain, a blend of the famous Grape Ape and Grapefruit strains. The citrusy and berry-like flavors are responsible for the sugar-inducing effects and name, while a moderate THC content offers a balanced experience, making it suitable for a range of workout types. Both euphoric and relaxing, this strain may be the perfect companion to ease pre-workout stress and set a positive tone for exercise. Explore the vibrancy of the Zkittles strain at CanEx.
Sherblato
Between Indica and Sativa strains, you’ll find a lot of hybrids that combine the best of both worlds. Sherblato is one of these, and as the lovechild of Sherbet and Gelato strains, this sweet and fruity strain with a high THC content offers a well-balanced (although intense) cerebral and bodily high. With a terpene profile that includes caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene, you’ll feel the well-rounded effects that can up your focus and boost your mood and creativity. Explore Sherblato and other hybrids here.
Sour Diesel
Sour Diesel is a legendary Sativa-dominant strain that is well-known for its pungent diesel-like aroma and sharp flavors, mostly due to its lineage that can be traced to strains like Chemdawg, Northern Lights, and Skunk. It usually has high levels of THC, ranging from 20-25%, leading to invigorating and uplifting effects that can help you stay super-focused and super-charged all the way through your workout. Dive into the world of Sour Diesel at CanEx.
Green Crack
While the name might sound a little scary, Green Crack is anything but. Do be warned, this strain can have potent Sativa effects, as it is renowned for its energetic and uplifting qualities, mostly due to a terpene profile including myrcene, caryophyllene, and limonene. This Afghani landrace strain can help you power through your routine with enthusiasm and mental clarity, and you can find an array of similar strains at CanEx.
Super Lemon Haze
Super Lemon Haze is a Sativa-dominant strain that’s well-known for its high THC content, delivering a burst of energy and mental focus that makes it a great choice for a little pre-workout boost. With lineage stemming from famous strains like Lemon Skunk and Super Silver Haze, this invigorating strain might just sharpen your concentration and make you happy with keeping it as an exercise companion.
Harlequin
We can’t finish off the list without a hybrid strain that beats out THC with a high CBD content. In comes Harlequin, a Sativa-dominant strain with just enough CBD to keep your body and mind calm, even through invigorating effects. This strain comes from crossbreeding renowned strains like Colombian Gold, Thai, Nepali Indica, and Swiss Landrace strains, making it a unique option that may provide some relief without messing around with your overall focus and energy levels. While it might not be the best option for high-intensity workouts, it’s a great choice for low-impact and recovery-focused routines.
The Role of CBD in Post-Workout Recovery
After an intense workout, your body and mind deserve some tender loving care. CBD (cannabidiol), is the perfect natural ally in the world of post-workout recovery. Although by itself it isn’t psychoactive, strains high in CBD may help alleviate the stress your body goes through after a high-intensity workout. While we can’t promise it’ll get rid of aches and pains, some users have reported this cannabinoid as a great way to bounce back from pain and feel revitalized after a workout.
Final Thoughts
We’re still discovering the synergy between cannabis and exercise, but one thing is clear: the journey is as unique as the individual. You might find strains like Durban Poison and Green Crack are the perfect companion for energizing and keeping your mind focused during workouts, while more mellow strains like Harlequin and Super Lemon Haze offer benefits that go beyond the gym.
There’s a strain for every occasion, and hitting the gym isn’t an exception. Whether you’re looking to elevate your mood and workout, find peace in post-workout recovery, or just enjoy the THC-induced experience, rest assured that CanEx has a strain for you.
Best Strain for Working Out: Frequently Asked Questions
Can cannabis improve workout performance?
Thanks to the energizing boost and increased focus that some strains provide, cannabis may enhance your workout performance and help you recover after the fact.
How should I consume my chosen strain before a workout?
The way you consume cannabis depends entirely on your preference. Smoking and vaping offer instant effects. Other consumption methods, like edibles, may take longer to kick in but offer long-lasting effects.
Are there any legal implications of using cannabis as a pre-workout?
In places where cannabis is legal, you shouldn’t have any issues consuming it before your workout. Still, make sure to check local laws and regulations to keep out of trouble.
Can I mix my cannabis strain with other pre-workout supplements?
Always consult a healthcare professional to ensure safety before mixing cannabis with other pre-workout supplements.
How can I ensure that I’m getting a genuine strain?
Purchasing authentic cannabis strains from reputable dispensaries and licensed vendors is your best bet, and always make sure to buy only lab-tested products that verify the strain’s content. One sure-fire place to get authentic strains is CanEx.