![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/run-1080-1024x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Well, what if we told you that research suggests the opposite might be true? <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Time to Reconsider the Perception of the Lazy Stoner<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What if instead of making you feel lazy, marijuana helped you feel more motivated to work out?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Well, that seems to be what a recent CU Boulder research study found. Those who enjoyed cannabis – either before or after their workouts – were more likely to be active than those who did not consume cannabis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
More Cardio Than Those Who Don\u2019t Enjoy Cannabis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The study was one of the first to examine cannabis use and exercise. The results were published in the journal, Frontiers in Public Health.<\/em> <\/em>The study found that those who used marijuana before or after exercising got, on average, 43 more minutes of weekly aerobic exercise than those who didn\u2019t.1<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n Angela Bryan, a senior author of the study who is a professor of Psychology and Neuroscience said: \u201cThere is a stereotype that cannabis use leads people to be lazy and couch-locked and not-physically active, but these data suggest this is not the case.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Professor Bryan emphasized that she is not recommending the use of cannabis with exercise, saying, \u201cThe evidence is not there yet, but I am also not convinced it is harmful.\u201d2<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n Out of 605 legal marijuana users in Colorado, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, the study found that 81.7% paired cannabis with exercise – either one hour before or within four hours after their workout. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These findings are significant because many Americans do not meet the minimum exercise recommendations for physical activity. Often, the reasons many don\u2019t meet these requirements include a lack of motivation, not enjoying their workouts, and poor recovery. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Think of the potential implications for the millions of Americans battling obesity and the health problems that can arise from being overweight or living a sedentary lifestyle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Besides the myth that cannabis users are lazy, there\u2019s another stereotype often applied to those who enjoy cannabis. That is that they\u2019ll tend to be on the chunky side. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Once again science comes to the rescue, to clear up this misnomer. According to a study published in the September 2016 issue of The Journal of Mental Health Policy and Economics<\/em>, this is not necessarily the case. In fact, the opposite might be true.7<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n The study found that those who enjoyed cannabis daily were leaner than those who did not consume. Males were 2.7% leaner and females were 3.1% leaner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Just another nod from science that cannabis could be helpful for the millions of Americans battling medical issues associated with being overweight. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Speaking of misconceptions, let\u2019s talk about the euphoric feeling runners can sometimes experience that\u2019s known as \u201crunner\u2019s high.\u201d For quite some time, the scientific community believed this high was caused by the release of endorphins. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Well, in April of 2021, the results of a study were published in the journal, Psychoneuroendocrinology<\/em>. The study found that runner\u2019s high was more likely caused by endocannabinoids than endorphins.3<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n Endogenous cannabinoids, or endocannabinoids, are cannabinoids that are naturally produced within our bodies. Many people are surprised to hear that endocannabinoids occur naturally within our bodies \u2013 whether or not we consume cannabis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Authors of the study wrote, \u201c… endorphins don\u2019t seem to play a major role. We found, instead, that running stimulates endocannabinoid release, and based on our present and earlier findings, we conclude that endocannabinoids are responsible for a runner’s high.\u201d4<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n Another myth busted. The euphoric feeling runners and endurance athletes experience comes as a result of endocannabinoids. Specifically, researchers believe it\u2019s the endocannabinoid known as anandamide that promotes the feelings of euphoria associated with runner\u2019s high.5<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n Anandamide was named after the Sanskrit word meaning bliss or joy, due to it being a mood enhancer that provides a calming effect. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Anandamide is naturally produced in our bodies. Usually, AAH enzymes break down the anandamide in our system. The well-known cannabinoid, Cannabidiol (CBD), however, can inhibit those enzymes from breaking it down.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n By doing so, CBD allows the Anandamide to attach to the receptors in our brains – which results in the calming effect commonly attributed to CBD. So, if endocannabinoids can help you feel better during and after a good workout, would it be safe to assume that the cannabinoids found in cannabis can help to promote better overall health and quality of life?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Instead of promoting laziness, research shows that cannabis could help to boost motivation and the enjoyment we receive from our workouts. Plus, cannabinoids like THC and CBD have shown to help reduce pain and inflammation, which can help to improve the way we recover from our work outs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since consistency is key to reaping the benefits of exercise, by improving people\u2019s enjoyment of their workouts, along with recovery, cannabinoids could help more people stick with their exercise programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Click here<\/a> to find out how medicating with the right mix of cannabinoids could help to unlock your body\u2019s natural healing power. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The team from CU Boulder also completed a separate study that compared the activity levels of older adults who used cannabis with those who didn\u2019t. After participating in a 16-week exercise program, those who used cannabis exercised more than those who didn\u2019t. Before we move on to talking about another potential benefit of mixing exercise and cannabis, let\u2019s address something important – safety. Just because science indicates that mixing exercise and cannabis can be beneficial, it doesn\u2019t mean doing so is safe in all cases. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, if you\u2019re new to exercising on cannabis, start with very small doses and begin with something easy like taking a walk. If that goes well, then perhaps you can move on to a slow jog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, if you\u2019re into contact sports like rugby or mixed martial arts, where your safety depends on being mentally sharp, then save the toke until after your workout. The bottom line, use common sense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to helping with motivation, inflammation, and recovery, another benefit of cannabis use for athletes is that it can help them get into a flow state.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n Flow states are said to inspire creativity and boost mental and physical performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s some good news for those whose pre-workout routine includes a bit of THC and caffeine. The mix of THC, caffeine, and exercise has been said to help facilitate a flow state. The answer to this question will be different for all. But as a general rule of thumb, Sativa strains of cannabis are considered to be suitable for use before your workout. Indica strains will tend to be best enjoyed after your workout as a recovery aid. Here\u2019s why:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Of course, a lot more goes into determining what strains, or methods of consumption are best. The info we\u2019ve provided here should only be used as a general guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Increased motivation, greater enjoyment, less pain, and improved recovery … it\u2019s no wonder more and more elite athletes have admitted to turning to cannabis as a natural alternative to pain relieving drugs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a Men\u2019s Journal article, Suzanne Sisley, M.D., an Arizona-based physician and psychiatrist affiliated with Doctors for Cannabis regulation who helps treat the injuries of pro athletes, said: \u201cI think all athletes – whether they\u2019re NFL or NBA pros or just serious athletes wanting to better their fitness-are learning about the therapeutic potential of this plant.\u201d8<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n One thing that\u2019s common among athletes, regardless of their sport, is the possibility of injury. And once those injuries occur, athletes will have to decide how they\u2019ll treat those injuries.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n For example, NFL players will inevitably sustain injuries during their careers due to the high contact nature of the sport. Often, the treatment for these injuries involves opioid pain medications like morphine, Vicodin, codeine, or oxycodone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Unfortunately, this has led to an opioid problem in the NFL. According to a study by researchers at Washington University in St. Louis, retired NFL players misuse prescription painkillers four times as often than the general population.9<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, during his NFL career, Kyle Turley sustained numerous injuries which led to use of, and eventually becoming addicted to, opioid medications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When he retired, Kyle began to experience neurological issues along with depression. That\u2019s when he decided to replace his opioid medications with cannabis, and things changed for the better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In his words, \u201cCannabis saved my life, period. It\u2019s given me back my energy, my drive, my determination.\u201d8<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n Turley is not alone in his belief that cannabis could be effective in treating things like depression and as a potential replacement for opioid medications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2016, researchers conducted a review of science to explore the potential mental health benefits of cannabis. Their findings showed that cannabis could be beneficial for those dealing with depression, anxiety, and PTSD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition, the study suggested cannabis could also be beneficial for those battling addiction.10<\/sup> Click here<\/a> to learn more about the role cannabis could play in the treatment of addiction, depression, and PTSD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although more research is needed, early results indicate that instead of resulting in a sedentary lifestyle, cannabis can help to promote a healthy active lifestyle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n By improving motivation, enjoyment of our workouts, and recovery, cannabis could be an effective tool in the battle against the health issues that can arise as a result of living a sedentary lifestyle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n To learn more about cannabis and its potential health benefits, be sure to check out the Cannabis Education<\/a> section of BloomMedicinals.com<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Gone are the days where smoking your cannabis was the only way to enjoy its therapeutic benefits. Today, you have a wide range of options available. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, instead of focusing exclusively on whether you should medicate with cannabis flower, oil, tinctures, or edibles, it\u2019s just as important to find the right balance of cannabinoids and terpenes that work best with your endocannabinoid system. By doing so, we can help to identify the consumption methods and forms of cannabis that are best for you! Take the first step toward an improved quality of life by calling to schedule your free consultation at a Bloom Medicinals<\/a> dispensary near you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/cardio-crew-post-1024x507.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPotential Benefits of Mixing Cannabis with Exercise<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Among those who mixed cannabis with their workouts:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/bike-1080-1024x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>Cannabis Users Leaner Than Those Who Do Not Partake?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/lean-post-1024x507.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAre Cannabinoids Responsible for Runner\u2019s High?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/runners-high-1024x507.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat Are Endocannabinoids?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How CBD Can Help You Make the Most of Your Anandamide<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/anandomide-1080-1024x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>
Click here<\/a> to learn more about the benefits of cannabinoids like CBD.<\/p>\n\n\n\nCan Cannabis Improve Health and Quality of Life?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/more-healthy-lifestyle-1024x507.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCannabis and Health for Older Adults<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Since remaining active in our later years can lead to better overall health, the results of the study seem to indicate that cannabis could play a role in improving the quality of life for older adults.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/healthy-lifestyle-1024x507.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Angela Bryan stated: \u201cAs we get older, exercise starts to hurt, and that is one reason older adults don\u2019t exercise as much.\u201d If cannabis could ease pain and inflammation, helping older adults be more active, that could be another benefit.\u201d2<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\nA Word of Caution:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Get Into the Flow<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/flow-state-1080-1024x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>
A flow state is defined as an \u201coptimal state of consciousness when our brains begin to quiet down, allowing for an increased sense of wellbeing, an elevated sense of energy, and a spiked increase in concentration.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\nCaffeine + THC + Exercise = Flow State <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Click here<\/a> to learn more about What Happens When You Smoke Weed and Drink Coffee<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Type of Cannabis Is Best for Working Out?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/thinking-cannabis-1024x507.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
<\/li>THC: Less Pain, More Gains<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
THC as a Potential Replacement for Opioids?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/injuries-1080-1024x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/medical-cannabis-1024x507.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTHC\u2019s Potential to Improve Mental Health<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/sup>
The study\u2019s author, Professor Jack Walsh of the University of British Columbia, said, \u201cThis is a substance that has potential use for mental health \u2026 . If people use cannabis as a replacement for opioid medications, or to get off opioids or cut back, we could see some pretty dramatic public health benefits.\u201d10<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\nCannabis Could Be An Important Part of A Healthy Lifestyle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.bloommarijuana.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/healthy-living-lifestyle-1024x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>The Best Way to Medicate with Cannabis Is Different for All<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bloom Medicinals Can Help to Identify Which Way Is Best for You<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Doing so could unlock your body\u2019s natural healing power. That is why Bloom Medicinals would like to offer you the chance to schedule a free, one-on-one consultation.
During this consultation, our patient care specialists will get to know you, your qualifying conditions, medications, dietary restrictions, activity level, and any specific effects you\u2019re looking to avoid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n