How to Use Cannabis for Muscle Recovery

Are you feeling a little sore after that long workout?

When those muscles start to cramp, you may think of grabbing a protein shake or an aspirin to help offset that pain. Still, many athletes are now utilizing cannabis as a supplement to help with muscle recovery and relaxation. For years cannabis has been associated with the "lazy stoner" personality type, but surveys have shown that many fitness buffs, and even professional athletes, smoke cannabis after games and practices. Not only can cannabis flower and CBD help make your regular fitness routine more enjoyable, but they can also help you feel more rested, relaxed, and ready for your next workout. 

Here's a quick guide on how to use cannabis for muscle recovery!

Using CBD for Recovery

While there are many differences between the two types of cannabinoids, CBD and THC can be beneficial to incorporate into your workout supplement regimen. 

In particular, even though it does not give the user any psychoactive effects, CBD is beneficial as an anti-inflammatory agent. Taking CBD can be great as a post-workout supplement, soothing the aches and pains of weight training and HIIT exercises and allowing the body to recover quickly without any lasting soreness. 

For the best results, try adding a few drops of our City Trees 20:1 Tincture to your protein shake or sports drink right after working out! You may notice a significant decrease in pain, joint tightness, and fatigue, leaving you well rested and eager to get back in the gym.

Using THC for Recovery

THC is very different from CBD, giving the user psychoactive effects, but it can also be beneficial to use both before and after exercising. 

As far as muscle recovery goes, smoking cannabis flower after a workout may soothe some of the acute muscle pain from weight training. It also is more effective as a post-workout supplement than taking an edible, which could take upwards of an hour for any medicinal effects to be felt. 

Before starting your workout routine, smoking or vaping a strain high in THC can also help increase energy and attitude about exercising. One study conducted by psychology students at UC Boulder found that many cannabis users in states with legal access frequently consume before and during exercise and that most who do so believe it increases "enjoyment of, recovery from, and to some extent the motivation to engage in exercise." 

Recovery Through Sleep

Sleep is an essential part of the muscle recovery process. Not only can a good night's sleep help restore the stress put on your muscles during a workout, but it can also leave you feeling more refreshed and energetic the next day and more eager to hit the gym. 

A majority of muscle recovery occurs during the deep sleep phase, where your blood pressure drops and an extra supply of oxygen and nutrients is delivered to the strained muscles. Cannabis can be a tremendous aid for those who cannot get the recommended amount of sleep (7-9 hours), especially strains and products that are higher in THC. 

Try one of our indica-dominant distillate cartridges about an hour before bedtime, and you'll feel ready for some rest!

Appetite/Diet

Along with getting a good night's sleep, eating a balanced and healthy post-workout meal is also vital in making sure your muscles recover properly. During an intense workout, the proteins in your muscles will start to break down and become damaged. Getting the right balance of carbs and fats and an adequate amount of protein will ensure that your body gets the amino acids it needs to rebuild this broken-down muscle and build new muscle tissue. 

Many people with dietary issues have difficulty developing an appetite throughout the day and consuming the appropriate amount of calories needed to increase muscle mass. Cannabis is a well-known appetite stimulant, activating a hormone in the brain called ghrelin and tricking your body into thinking it is hungry. If you're looking to pack on the pounds and up your daily calorie intake, try smoking a higher THC indica strain before your post-workout meal.

The Verdict

Whether you're looking for a CBD-rich product to reduce inflammation or a new vape cartridge to stimulate your appetite after a workout, City Trees has plenty of products that will take your exercise routine to the next level. 

Visit our online store to see our full range of products and find a cannabis experience that best fits your active lifestyle!