Cannabis and Sport? 3 Facts Everyone Should Know…

01. 03. 2026

THC residues stored in fat reserves positively affect physical activity
The effect of cannabis and physical exertion is essentially the same
Cannabis users demonstrably have lower insulin levels in the blood and smaller waist circumference

Despite the fact that most people do not think of medical cannabis as an "herbal Red Bull", it's time to reconsider the prevailing societal view that often thoughtlessly categorizes cannabis as a "lazy drug for stoners". As it turns out, cannabis and sports are becoming inseparable partners for many.

Here are 3 main reasons why medical cannabis should be a herbal dietary supplement for all enthusiastic athletes and those wanting to start exercising.

1. Cannabis and Runner's High

The fact that our body stores THC, a psychoactive cannabinoid, in fat reserves is well-known today. A recent study from August 2017, published in the scientific magazine Drug and Alcohol Dependence, revealed that THC residues in the body provide additional energy during exercise, surprisingly up to 28 days after cannabis consumption.

THC residues begin to release back into the bloodstream when fat burning is initiated during sufficiently intense training. This creates an effect similar to a small dose of medical THC. Scientists found that THC levels in athletes' blood increase by an average of 15% during exercise, returning to normal about 2 hours after the activity ends.

2. Cannabis Effect = Sport Effect

The fact that exercise is healthy is something no one will likely try to refute. Not only is sufficient physical activity absolutely crucial to avoiding obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and many other illnesses, exercise is now also associated with healthy development of new brain cells and radical stress reduction.

A new finding is that endorphins, previously credited for feelings of well-being after activities like sex or intense exercise, are merely part of the entire process. One study confirmed that during physical exertion, the endocannabinoid system is activated, just like when consuming cannabis. The endocannabinoid system is a group of lipids and receptors activated by endocannabinoids (produced by the body) and exocannabinoids (from external sources). THC and CBD, through cooperation with this system, can influence pain and hunger sensations, and improve mood and memory.

One logical explanation for why the body releases cannabinoids during physical exertion is that they help the body cope with exertion and pain. So if you feel slightly "high" after an intense workout, pat yourself on the back and go have a snack, knowing you've given it your all.

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3. Cannabis as the Arch-Enemy of Sweets

Sufficiently intense exercise will undoubtedly help you burn off that muffin you enjoyed with your morning coffee. However, physical activity is not the only thing that helps ward off those notorious fats.

A recent study published in the scientific magazine American Journal of Medicine found that cannabis users have up to 16% lower insulin levels in the blood (measured before meals) compared to non-users. Medical cannabis users also have a generally lower average waist circumference.

So, ladies and gentlemen, if you're interested in weight loss or want to start exercising, here's something to think about. It seems that both endogenous cannabinoids and plant-derived cannabinoids go hand in hand with physical activity due to their pain-reducing and energy-boosting effects.

Author:
Anna Wilcox

Source:
Wilcox, Anna. "Three Things Everyone Should Know About Cannabis and Exercise." Leafly, 31 Aug. 2016, www.leafly.com/news/health/three-things-everyone-should-know-about-cannabis-and-exercise.