Runner's High: Experiment Reveals How Cannabis Actually Affects Exercise
The impact of cannabis on exercise is rife with assumptions and contradictions. Emerging evidence suggests that cannabis use may lead to increased physical activity. Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder conducted an experiment to investigate the effects of cannabis on exercise enjoyment. The study found that cannabis use, whether THC or CBD, increased positive mood and enjoyment during exercise.
The Experiment
In a recent experiment conducted at the University of Colorado Boulder, 42 healthy adult runners who identified as regular cannabis users participated. The participants were asked to run on a treadmill at a moderate pace for 30 minutes. Scientists monitored their physical and mental state before, during, and after the run. On another occasion, participants were given the option to use either THC or CBD products before a similar 30-minute run.
THC, the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, and CBD, a compound known for muscle-relaxing and anti-inflammatory effects, were both examined in the study. The goal was to understand how cannabis use affects exercise enjoyment.
Findings and Results
The study revealed that cannabis use, regardless of THC or CBD, increased positive mood and enjoyment during exercise. However, THC products specifically made the exercise feel more effortful. This suggests that cannabis may enhance the experience of exercise, making it more enjoyable.
It is important to note that there is currently limited research on the acute effects of cannabis on exercise. Most studies conducted in the past were outdated and lacked the observational data that recent legalization has allowed for. The University of Colorado Boulder is one of the institutions actively exploring the relationship between cannabis and exercise.
Considerations and Future Research
Although the study suggests that cannabis may enhance exercise enjoyment, researchers do not recommend using THC or CBD products before exercise due to potential risks. Participants who consumed THC showed an increased heart rate while high before running, raising concerns about cardiovascular health.
The study had limitations, such as the lack of blinding and randomization, as well as unregulated dosage among participants. The sample was also biased towards regular cannabis users who engage in running. Further studies with more rigorous methodologies are needed to confirm these initial findings and explore other aspects, such as the potential benefits of cannabis in exercise recovery.
