The unending debate regarding the use and legalization of marijuana has resulted in a lot of conflicting information. Nevertheless, we can’t disregard the medical and recreational gains of the cannabis plant. Marijuana could potentially aid in athlete training, help relieve pain, inflammation and improve focus.
Although we may not fully understand its therapeutic attributes, some studies reveal that weed may have performance-enhancing benefits to cyclists.
What are the best cannabis strains for athletes?
THC is attributed to high and intoxicating effects, and it’s safe to steer away from high THC strains and products. Instead, go for high CBD strains. For instance, strains like the gorilla glue cannabis strain are easy to grow and flower between 8-9 weeks indoors. However, it’s ideal for anyone seeking high intoxicating effects due to its super high THC content.
Examples of CBD rich strains are;
- Harlequin
- ACDC
- Ringo’s Gift
- Harle-Tsu
- Charlotte’s Web
How will marijuana influence my cycling experience?
- Reduced body strain
Some theories suggest that cannabis can help athletes in training. The pain relief elements in most strains can help ease body stain, relax the muscles and make athletes push harder during training Marijuana is good for pain relief and can help with endurance. With a few doses of cannabis, you can cycle for a long duration, improve your speed and efficiency.
- Enhanced recovery
The main components of cannabis are THC and CBD. CBD has many therapeutic properties and helps cyclists in recovery after workouts. This makes it easy to manage inflammation from intense workouts. It also helps minimize muscle strain and manage dehydration after strenuous activities.
Nowadays, most athletes use CBD oil for minor injuries than over the counter medications. Again, some studies suggest that CBD, a component of cannabis, may be a strong anti-oxidant rich in anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties.
- Enhanced mental clarity
We all have individualized reactions to marijuana, and this mainly depends on the strains and dosages. Nonetheless, it’s believed that cannabis can help athletes boost their mental awareness, make muscle movements and enjoy more efficient workouts. The effects of the products can result in a more active mind and focus, which minimizes distractions during workouts.
What are the downsides of cannabis use among cyclists and athletes?
Marijuana is purported to have many health gains, but this isn’t without some downsides. Smoking weed may have negative health impacts on the lungs. If you must use cannabis, it’s advisable to consider other consumption methods like ingestion.
Also, marijuana may induce and improve sleep but has been shown to disrupt REM sleep cycles. This can affect your muscle growth and recovery. Lastly, weed can impair your ability to drive by affecting your motor skills. And this can result in varying speeds, wandering and accidents.
The bottom line
Cycling is fun, and there are many ways to improve your performance and sporting experience. Many athletes now use weed to boost their energy levels and manage pain and inflammation. However, it’s best to discuss this with your doctor before using any cannabis products. The professional will examine your health status and enlighten you on any side effects beforehand.
