In the ever-evolving world of fitness, people are constantly seeking new methods to enhance their workouts, boost motivation, and simply make exercise more enjoyable. From protein shakes and pre-workout supplements to performance-enhancing strategies, almost everything has been tried.

But here’s a curveball—what if smoking weed became part of your workout routine? With marijuana now legal in many U.S. states, more fitness enthusiasts are starting to explore the idea of incorporating cannabis into their training sessions. Some say it helps them mentally lock in, others claim it’s the best post-exercise pain relief they’ve ever experienced. But is this just hype, or does it have real potential? Many people compare the effect of cannabis to a “runner’s high”—that euphoric feeling you get after intense aerobic activity. Except in this case, users say they feel that blissful calm even before the first squat or sprint.

Cannabis, particularly strains high in THC, has been said to ease pre-workout anxiety and replace it with a motivated, focused mindset. Jessamyn Stanley, a well-known yoga teacher and advocate for cannabis use in wellness, openly shares how it helps her quiet mental chatter and release anxiety before a workout, allowing her to fully embrace the moment. Mentally, cannabis might offer notable benefits. It increases dopamine levels in the brain, the chemical that enhances mood and pleasure. So instead of dreading the gym, a small dose might change your attitude and help you approach exercise with excitement.

For repetitive exercises like running, swimming, or cycling, users often describe entering a meditative state where the motions become rhythmic and enjoyable. It’s less about being high and more about getting into the groove, syncing your breathing with your movement, and actually having fun while working out. Cannabis is also well known for helping with anxiety, and for people who get socially anxious in packed gyms, a little weed could calm the nerves enough to allow them to stay focused and confident. Physically, cannabis might help even more. THC and CBD—the two most well-known cannabinoids—have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce pain and help with muscle recovery. Whether you’re sore from leg day or dealing with long-term joint pain, weed could offer some relief that allows you to keep showing up. Dr. Gary Starr from FOCUS mentions that cannabis may even help reduce the body’s inflammatory response after intense exercise, leading to less soreness and quicker recovery times.

Athletes also frequently turn to cannabis to help with sleep, which is essential for muscle recovery. If cannabis helps you relax and fall asleep faster, it indirectly supports your fitness progress by giving your body the rest it needs to rebuild and grow. That said, the science isn’t entirely settled. Research on cannabis and athletic performance is still ongoing, and results are mixed. A 2017 study from the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport found no improvement in physical performance linked to cannabis use. So no, weed won’t turn you into a superhero. However, the mental benefits can’t be ignored. A survey published in Nature revealed that 70% of users in legal states found their workouts more enjoyable with cannabis, and those same people reportedly exercised more often and for longer durations than non-users. While it’s not a miracle supplement, if cannabis helps you stay consistent with your workouts, that’s already a win. Of course, using weed before a workout does come with some risks. THC increases your heart rate, which could be dangerous for people with existing heart issues. It can also impair coordination and reaction time, making it risky for exercises that require balance or precision—think heavy lifting, gymnastics, or high-intensity intervals. THC may also impact hydration and glucose metabolism, so you’ll need to drink plenty of water. And dosage is key—not everyone reacts the same. If you’re new to cannabis, don’t jump into edibles or high-dose THC products before exercising. Start with a small puff and see how your body responds. If you’re curious but don’t want the high, CBD might be a safer starting point. It’s non-psychoactive but still offers anti-inflammatory and calming effects. According to Kendra Freeman from Mendi, a brand that makes CBD products for athletes, it’s ideal for those seeking recovery without impairment. Whether in oil, capsule, or topical form, CBD could be a game-changer—just make sure you buy from trustworthy sources that offer lab-tested products. In the end, cannabis isn’t going to magically transform your physique or boost your athletic output overnight. But if it helps you show up, reduces your anxiety, eases your post-workout soreness, and makes exercise something you look forward to instead of dreading, that’s a huge win. The key is knowing your limits, staying hydrated, using the right dose, avoiding risky movements, and talking to a healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Fitness is about discovering what works for your body and mind, and if weed helps you stay consistent and positive, it might just be the tool you didn’t know you needed.