Cannabis is now legal in more than 30 states for medical purposes. To get access to medical cannabis, you need to go for an MMJ card evaluation and get your MMJ card. Cannabis has various health benefits. It can be beneficial in many ways, thanks to its various therapeutic properties. But did you know that some of these properties can also help in enhancing your workout? This is especially true for an aerobic workout.
Cannabis has now become very popular among people all over the United States. More and more people are now using cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes. But, there are many people who still have the misconception that cannabis is for ‘lazy’ people. The truth is that it all depends upon the strain you are consuming. The Cannabinoid and Terpene content of your strain determines whether you will feel sleepy or energized.
In this article, we will learn about some of the best cannabis strains for workout and recovery.
Sativa strains have a combination of compounds that tend to provide more energy to users. On the other hand, Indicas are known to have compounds that provide relaxation. But, that’s not the case with many hybrid strains. Even a Sativa dominant hybrid can produce calming effects, and an Indica dominant hybrid strain does the opposite.
Busting the ‘lazy stoner’ myth
This is probably the biggest myth of cannabis. But think of it for a minute, if it’s true then why do cannabis users have a lower prevalence of obesity?
In April 2019, researchers surveyed more than 600 cannabis consumers. The study focused on the exercise habits and health factors of these cannabis users. 80 percent of these users claimed that they were consuming cannabis before, or right after their exercising.
The study also showed that they exercised a bit more than the people who do not consume cannabis. 70 percent of the participants reported that consuming cannabis before a workout made the session more enjoyable.
One possible reason for this is that cannabis can produce a feeling similar to ‘runner’s high’. A runner’s high is a euphoric feeling that you feel when you reach a sweet spot in your workout. Basically, there is a release of endorphins. Now, cannabis also has the ability to produce an artificial runner’s high, hence making the session more enjoyable. 78 percent of the participants also reported that cannabis helps them recover faster.
Don’t expect too much
Yes, cannabis can be beneficial for your workout. But you need to understand that it won’t make you stronger or faster by any means.
What it does is, it makes you feel like you want to train; it makes the session enjoyable and helps you recover faster. So, if you are thinking that it is some kind of “magical potion” that will help you smash records, then you are wrong.
While it can make the process of achieving success easier, it won’t directly make you stronger or faster. Cannabis will make you feel good if you consume it before your workout session.
What are the best cannabis strains for workout and recovery?
Here is a list of Best Cannabis Strains For Workout And Recovery
Harlequin
Pineapple Express
Durban Poison
Great White Shark
I cannot stress enough on this, but choosing the right cannabis strain for your workout is the key! Also, if you have never used cannabis before, then start low and slow.
Start slow and see how it affects you. One more thing you can do is to start on a relatively easy day.
Do not think that every Sativa dominant hybrid will offer the boost of energy, or an Indica dominant strain will make you sleepy. Do your research and then decide and see what strains work the best for different workout sessions.
Now, let’s talk about the best cannabis strains for the workout. I have prepared a list of strains that are best suited for the workout. Go through the list and learn about them.
Harlequin
Harlequin is best suited for running. This Sativa dominant hybrid is a cross between Swiss and Thai sativas, Colombian Gold, and a Nepali Indica.( Various studies show that CBD and THC are beneficial for chronic pain, inflammation, and many other health complications). And while you introduce new routines to your workout sessions, you may suffer from some torn muscles.
This is where Harlequin can help you. This strain has a relatively high combination of both THC and CBD. The levels of CBD and THC in Harlequin can reach up to 15 percent each.
This will help in recovering torn muscles in a very soothing way. These cannabinoids will help in calming the nervous system and boosting recovery. One more advantage of harlequin is that you will feel less fatigued. Also, you won’t have to worry about getting too high with Harlequin. Harlequin has a high amount of myrcene that offers anti-inflammatory effects.
Read More About Strains: Cannabis Strains For Anxiety Suggested by Cannabis Doctor
Pineapple Express
This is one of the most popular cannabis strains, thanks to the fame it got from the movie with the same name. Pineapple Express is a cross between Trainwreck and Hawaiian. This delicious tasting cannabis strain will produce a nice, mellow high.
It comes with high levels of THC that can reach up to 25 percent and has only 1 percent of CBD levels. But, don’t get intimidated by the high concentration of THC it has.
Pineapple Express offers a higher quality than what most people expect. It also offers an energetic buzz, which can be very beneficial for a dull training session.
This strain has the power to transform a dull session into an enjoyable one.
Durban Poison
Durban Poison is widely known as the ‘espresso’ of cannabis strains. It is another great option for pre-workout use. This pre-South African Sativa has high levels of THC that reach up to 20 percent. But comes with low levels of CBD. You can even use it in the morning instead of your casual cup of coffee.
The strong cerebral high you feel in the beginning will inspire and invigorate you. This strain produces stimulating euphoria that has the ability to give you an extra boost in the gym.
Great White Shark
Great White Shark is a very potent strain. It is produced by crossing a South Indian Sativa, South American, and Super Skunk. This Sativa dominant strain bucks the trend in various ways. It is also a great strain to boost your creativity. And the THC levels of this strain can range from 12 percent to 21 percent. But comes with low levels of CBD. So, be ready for a noticeable high.
Although it has Sativa leanings, Great White Shark is a great option to feel more relaxed and calmer. Many cannabis consumers use Great White Shark to deal with the nerves they feel. While many others recommend this amazing strain to manage chronic pain. It can help you loosen stiffness and help you get through your day with ease.
Final thoughts
Consume a cannabis strain according to your workout session. There are many strains available on the market for every type of workout. Whether you are going for a high-intensity workout or a low impact activity, you will always find an option.