Growing Interest in Cannabis for Athletic Performance
Athletes and cannabis – not your typical duo, right? Well, that’s what you might think. But with legalization spreading across the US, including Massachusetts, more athletes are turning to weed for working out, training, recovery, and overall wellness.
Plus, it’s Olympics season! If you’re feeling inspired to dust off your Hokas, let’s examine how and when athletes use cannabis.
Sidenote: Cannabis and the Olympics: What You Should Know
Ah, the Olympics – the pinnacle of athletic achievement and, let’s be honest, some pretty strict drug policies. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) lists THC as a prohibited substance during competition. However, they’ve given CBD the green light, recognizing its benefits for athletes.
Despite these rules, many athletes swear by cannabis for pain management and recovery.
The Science Behind Cannabis and Athletic Performance
Cannabis is packed with cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) that interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system. This system helps regulate pain, inflammation, and mood – all crucial for athletes. Here’s how cannabis can give you that extra edge:
- Pain Relief: Cannabinoids can reduce pain, which is a game-changer for dealing with injuries or grueling training sessions.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: CBD is a superstar at reducing inflammation and speeding up recovery times.
- Muscle Relaxation: Cannabis can help relax your muscles, reducing spasms and tension.
- Mental Focus and Anxiety Reduction: Some athletes find that cannabis helps them stay focused and calm, cutting down on pre-competition jitters.
Facts and Stats on Cannabis and Athletes
- Usage Among Athletes: A 2020 study in PLOS ONE found that about 26% of athletes use cannabis for pain management and recovery. That’s a lot of people getting their green on!
- Pain Management: The Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine reported that 61% of cannabis-using athletes do so to manage pain. It’s like having a secret weapon in your gym bag.
- Recovery Benefits: According to the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, 67% of athletes who use cannabis believe it helps with post-workout recovery. That’s two-thirds of athletes giving cannabis a thumbs-up!
How Massachusetts Athletes Can Use Cannabis Responsibly
- Consult with a Medical Professional: Before adding cannabis to your routine, check in with a healthcare provider. Better safe than sorry!
- Start Low and Go Slow: Start with small doses to see how your body reacts. No need to go overboard.
- Choose the Right Products: If you want to avoid the high, stick to CBD-dominant products.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest research and rules about cannabis and athletic performance. Knowledge is power, after all.
Visit RoadTrip Dispensary
Whether you’re an athlete or just looking for top-notch cannabis products, swing by our RoadTrip dispensary in Salisbury, Massachusetts. Our friendly staff can help you find the right products to support your athletic performance and recovery.
Location: 191 Lafayette Road, Salisbury, MA
Hours of Operation: Monday-Thursday, 10-9; Friday & Saturday, 9-9; Sunday, 10-8
Follow Us on Social Media: @roadtripdispensary
