Do Edibles Affect Your Cardio?

As adult-use legalization continues to spread across the country, more and more people have begun discussing the medicinal uses of THC and CBD products, specifically for fitness and recovery. Shown to alleviate pain, reduce muscle fatigue, and decrease inflammation, it's no surprise that athletes have started turning to cannabis as a replacement for prescription pain medicines.

While smokeless products like infused bath bombs and creams have become popular, plenty of fitness enthusiasts have touted the benefits of edibles for both pre and post-workout. 

The question many ask is: Do edibles affect your cardio? 

Health Benefits Post-Workout

Edibles are one of the most efficacious cannabis products to incorporate into your fitness routine. Smoking or vaping flower or oil cartridges can put a strain on the lungs and throat, which can be a huge distraction when it comes time to start your workout. If you're an athlete who's concerned about smoke inhalation, edibles are a great way to feel the medical effects of the plant without disrupting your respiratory system. 

One of cannabis' best medicinal qualities is its ability to relieve muscle and joint inflammation after a heavy cardio session. Studies have also shown that Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has twenty times the anti-inflammatory potency of aspirin and twice that of hydrocortisone.

Instead of taking ibuprofen after your run, try eating an edible gummy or using a tincture. You'll feel more relaxed and less sore reasonably quickly.

Consuming products higher in CBD can also be beneficial to use as a recovery supplement. CBD has been shown to reduce anxiety and inflammation throughout the body, which may lower the risk of heart disease.

Getting in the 'Zone'

Not only do edibles work tremendously as a pain relief supplement, but the psychoactive effects of THC can also help motivate you to work out! Certain terpenes, the component of cannabis that gives it its specific smell or flavor, can work to boost your energy and make you feel more awake. If possible, look for edibles that contain the terpenes limonene or pinene. These both work to open your airways and promote energy throughout the body. 

Even though physical fitness is a big part of high-intensity exercise, your mental attitude and strength can be just as important. The ingested cannabinoids will bind to your brain and regulate your mood, memory, and pain receptors when you take an edible. This, in turn, will help you tolerate the discomfort that comes from extended movement and muscle stress and last longer during an intense cardio session. 

Consuming cannabis can also help you get into a meditative trance during endurance workouts, especially an indica-dominant strain. This mindset is often referred to as a "flow state," where the athlete is entirely focused on the present moment and free of distraction, making it easier to control their breathing and pace. Benefits like these make edible cannabis a popular supplement amongst yogis, long-distance runners, and even skiers/snowboarders!

What Edibles Should I Choose?

Here are some tips on how to get the best cannabis experience during your workout:

Sativa vs. Indica

Sativa strains are great for uplifting your energy and mood, making them better for getting a pre-workout boost. Indica, on the other hand, will give you a more sedated and relaxed feeling and is best used for recovery after a workout or before bedtime. 

Lower the Dose

If you're looking to consume cannabis before a workout, it's best not to go overboard. Consuming a lower or medium potency edible is the best method to get in the zone but not feel too distracted or overwhelmed! Our 20:1 Tincture is an excellent option for athletes who need pain relief and mild relaxation but mild psychoactive effects. 

Get Some Sleep 

Getting a good night's sleep is also a vital part of the post-workout recovery process. If you're having trouble sleeping, try adding a few drops of our Blue Agave Tincture to some chamomile tea each night! Not only does it keep you mentally alert and focused during the daytime, but it also gives your muscles and heart ample time to repair themselves after being put under stress during cardio.
Visit our online store to see our full range of City Trees tinctures! If you're looking for more info on integrating cannabis into your fitness routine, check out our blog on How to Use Cannabis for Muscle Recovery.