Cannabis and sport: what’s true? Weed while exercising – studies and real effects

More and more people are combining sport with cannabis in the form of THC and CBD –be it for better sleep, more relaxation or a more enjoyable training session. At the same time, there are many unanswered questions: does it really help or is it just a trend? And what does science say? Current research shows that cannabis does not increase performance, but may have some benefits for recovery, mood and regeneration. Here’s our overview of myths, real findings and what it all means for your own training. Also, now live, the first strain from Frederic Vosgröne (MMA legend).

Cannabis before sport & training?

einfach erklärt

Cannabis before training is often associated with better focus, more flow or a more relaxed mood. Scientifically, however, a clear picture emerges: THC is hardly suitable before intensive or technically demanding units, as reaction time, coordination and attention can decrease measurably.

“Studies have not been able to prove that THC increases performance; in fact, it can even slow down strength training or intervals.”

CBD, on the other hand, does not have an intoxicating effect and hardly affects motor skills or concentration. Research results indicate that CBD can reduce stress and nervousness before training, making exercise feel subjectively more pleasant – without increasing actual performance.

How does cannabis work before exercise?

• THC: Coordination ↓
• CBD: Stress ↓
• Performance: unchanged

Doing cannabis after sport?

After training, the benefits of cannabis shift significantly towards regeneration.

“CBD in particular shows relevant effects here.”

Studies indicate that CBD can alleviate inflammatory processes after stress and reduce the subjective sensation of pain. In addition, sleep plays a central role in muscle regeneration, hormone balance and recovery – this is precisely where CBD can help by making it easier to fall asleep and improving the quality of sleep.

THC is often used after sport because of its relaxing effect, but can influence deep sleep phases depending on the dose. The following therefore applies: CBD is better suited for regular regeneration, THC is more reserved and situational.

How does cannabis work after exercise?

• Regeneration ↑
• Sleep ↑
• Inflammation ↓

What does the sports scientist say?

Sports scientist Simon warns against regular cannabis use after training.

His main argument: even if cannabis can have a relaxing effect in the short term, experience from his environment shows that motivation, discipline and mental clarity can suffer in the long term. He is particularly critical of the lasting influence on reaction time, mental stability and habit formation. He also refers to studies (you can find a lot below) that investigate possible connections between cannabinoids and hormonal effects such as testosterone changes – even if the data situation here is not clear.

His conclusion? Short-term relaxation is conceivable, but in his view the risks outweigh the benefits in the long term, especially with regular consumption and among young people.

• Regular: critical
• Psyche: Risk
• Motivation: ↓

NEWS +++ Bäm! Now live, the first variety by Frederic Vosgröne

Sport and cannabis? Now that’s news! From gym to grow: Frederic Vosgröne, aka the Neanderthal, takes the next big step and, together with Demecan, presents several varieties that are causing a stir. Power, precision and quality – all combined in new, high-class flowers for the German market.

• Frederic Vosgröne: Cannabis flowers

Cannabis and competitive sport?

MYTHS about weed and sport

There are many myths surrounding cannabis, CBD and sport. Some say that cannabis improves performance or promotes muscle building, others claim that it is detrimental to any kind of training. The truth lies in the middle. There are positive effects – but no quick miracle cures. That’s why it’s worth separating the myths from the real findings.

Myth #1 Cannabis improves performance?

This myth persists, but it is not true. THC can actually slow down performance, especially during intense sessions. CBD, on the other hand, shows small benefits, but not enough to claim real performance enhancement.

“The body remains the most important factor – not the substance.”

That’s right!

Myth #2 Cannabis makes training dangerous?

THC can reduce alertness and coordination, especially in high doses. CBD, on the other hand, has no intoxicating effect and does not interfere with training. Many people even report greater calm and less stress during exercise.

That’s not true.

Myth #3 Cannabis harms your recovery?

Several studies (such as Isenmann) show that CBD helps the body relax and can reduce inflammation. This can even make recovery easier – important for anyone who exercises regularly.

Not true!

Weed and weight training: how weed affects muscle building

With a little more time, watch the video:

Findings from current studies

Research is increasingly focusing on cannabis and sport. Although much is still in its infancy, current studies show interesting benefits for sleep, mood, motivation and recovery. Here you will find the most important findings explained simply.

Sleep better with CBD

CBD can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more peacefully. This is important because the body repairs muscles and stores energy during sleep. Many people also report that they feel less exhausted the next day.

Source: Rojas-Valverde

Less pain after training

CBD can reduce pain after hard training sessions and relieve inflammation. As a result, the body feels recovered more quickly and it is easier to get back into training. This is a particular advantage for athletes with high workloads.

Source: McCartney

Small advantages for performance

In some tests, CBD showed small improvements in breathing and average strength output. This does not mean that you suddenly become stronger – but the body works a little more efficiently. These effects are small, but measurable.

Source: Bezuglov

Better atmosphere during training

Study participants who used cannabis or CBD often had more fun and felt more motivated when exercising. This can be particularly helpful during endurance training or relaxed sessions. A good mood often leads to longer, more enjoyable training sessions.

Source: Gibson

Faster muscle recovery

After intensive training sessions, athletes using CBD (for example as a gel) showed lower levels of a marker that indicates muscle damage. This shows that CBD calms the body more quickly and supports recovery. This allows you to train more regularly without feeling overloaded.

Source: Isenmann

What does that mean for your training?

The research is clear:

Cannabis does not automatically make you faster, stronger or fitter.

THC can even reduce performance, especially before intense sessions. CBD, on the other hand, can be useful if you want to sleep better, reduce pain or improve your recovery. For your training, this means: don’t use cannabis or CBD as a performance booster, but as a support for regeneration, sleep and motivation. The greatest effects occur when you combine training, nutrition, recovery and mental strength – CBD can be a small additional tool here, but not the main factor.

Bonus Video Tips! “High” Performers

You are not alone as an athlete. Usain Bolt, Mike Tyson, Muhammad Ali, Conor Mc Gregor, John Jones, Nate/Nick Diaz and Michael Felps have all used cannabis.