Working out when high is a topic that sparks debate among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. While some swear by its ability to enhance focus, endurance, and relaxation, others worry about its impact on coordination and performance.
Cannabis can interact with the body in various ways depending on the strain, dosage, and method of consumption. Whether you’re considering trying it for pain relief, motivation, or post-workout recovery, it’s essential to understand both the potential benefits and risks before incorporating cannabis into your fitness routine.
Is It Wise to Be Working Out While High?
Many cannabis users wonder whether working out when high is a good idea. While some people find that cannabis enhances their focus and motivation, others may experience dizziness or impaired coordination. The decision depends on personal tolerance, the type of cannabis consumed, and the nature of the workout.
Strenuous activities requiring precise movements, such as weightlifting or high-intensity training, may not be ideal while under the influence. However, lower-impact exercises like yoga, stretching, and light cardio may benefit from cannabis use due to its ability to promote relaxation and reduce discomfort.
When considering working out while high, it’s crucial to start with a low dose and gauge how your body reacts. The form of consumption also matters—THC gummies, THC tinctures, and cannabis vapes all have different onset times and effects. Knowing how cannabis influences your coordination and energy levels can help determine whether incorporating it into your fitness routine is a good fit.
Working Out High Benefits for Athletes
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts have reported various benefits to working out high, primarily related to pain management, focus, and endurance. Some potential advantages include the following:
- Pain Relief – Cannabis has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate post-workout soreness and chronic pain, allowing for more consistent training.
- Increased Focus – Some strains can help users stay in the zone, making repetitive or endurance-based exercises more enjoyable.
- Enhanced Enjoyment – Many athletes find that cannabis makes workouts feel less tedious, encouraging longer and more engaging sessions.
- Relaxation and Recovery – Post-exercise, cannabis can promote relaxation, helping users unwind after intense training.
However, while some experience these benefits, others may struggle with impaired motor skills, delayed reaction times, nausea, or increased heart rate. It is essential to experiment cautiously and choose the right strain and dosage.
Does THC Affect Muscle Recovery?
A common question among fitness enthusiasts is, “Does THC affect muscle recovery?” Research on this topic is still evolving, but some studies suggest that cannabis can aid recovery through its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. This can be particularly beneficial for athletes who engage in high-impact sports or strength training, as muscle soreness and joint discomfort can hinder progress.
However, cannabis may also interfere with certain recovery processes. THC has been shown to influence sleep patterns, which play a crucial role in muscle repair. While some people find that cannabis helps them fall asleep faster, others may experience disrupted REM sleep, which is necessary for deep recovery. If recovery is a primary concern, it’s essential to monitor sleep quality and ensure that cannabis use is not negatively impacting rest.
For those looking to use cannabis for post-workout recovery, Verdes Cannabis offers a range of products designed to promote relaxation and well-being.
Things To Consider Before Working Out High
Before incorporating cannabis into your fitness routine, keep the following factors in mind:
- Dosage Matters – Start with a low dose and assess how it affects your energy levels and coordination.
- Consumption Method – Edibles like THC gummies take longer to kick in compared to cannabis vapes, which have a quicker onset.
- Type of Exercise – Low-impact activities like yoga or stretching may be more safe and suitable than high-intensity workouts.
- Hydration and Nutrition – Cannabis can cause dry mouth and changes in appetite, so staying hydrated and nourished is essential.
- Legal and Safety Considerations – Ensure that cannabis use aligns with local laws and does not compromise your safety or that of others in the gym.
If you’re interested in exploring high-quality cannabis products for your fitness routine, contact us at Verdes Cannabis. We offer a variety of safe, naturally cultivated products free from synthetic plant growth regulators (PGRs). Visit our dispensaries in New Mexico or shop online today!

As the Head of Education & Culture for Verdes Cannabis, a legacy cannabis company in New Mexico, Kelly is responsible for researching, creating, and delivering cannabis education to not only staff but also to clients and the community. She has extensively studied cannabis for the last 5 years, receiving several certificates from the Medical Cannabis Institute and Medical Marijuana 411. She continues her studies by attending medical cannabis conferences and monthly webinars with the top researchers and doctors in the field of medical cannabis. She enjoys being able to use her extensive knowledge and training in cannabis to educate and help others learn about this amazing plant.