As more scientific research about cannabis grows, the potential synergy between physical fitness and cannabinoids becomes a more widespread and popular factor for many athletes and workout enthusiasts.

Traditionally, cannabis has been associated with a relaxing, laid-back, ‘stoner’ lifestyle. Today, the many products at our Haverhill and Lowell dispensaries have proved to fit more than just your average, stigmatized stoner!

The Highs and Lows of Exercising with Cannabis

Many fitness enthusiasts are discovering the various ways cannabis can be incorporated into their workout and wellness routines. Not only can including cannabis in your workouts lead to a unique and potentially beneficial experience, but it can be a crucial key to a successful and soothing post-workout recovery.

Check out some of the many reasons and ways athletes and fitness enthusiasts incorporate cannabis into their workout routine.

Pre-Workout Boost

Like a good pre-workout mix or daily vitamins and supplements, many users have found cannabis to be an excellent, natural pre-workout boost for increased mental focus.

Scientists have also found that specific strains, such as those with higher levels of terpene limonene, are thought to enhance mood and energy levels when consumed. Of course, strains that are more sativa-leaning, or include terpenes or compounds known for increased energy and focus are the best types of cannabis to implement into your physical fitness.

Mind-Body Connection

Whether you’re using it to work out or not, cannabis is all about the connection to the mind and body! Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, interact with our endocannabinoid system to send various signals and messages throughout our bodies. This system regulates various physiological processes, including mood, appetite, and pain perception. Some yoga and meditation practitioners have reported that using cannabis can enhance their mind-body connection, leading to a more fulfilling workout experience.

Post-Workout Recovery

Aside from the connection of cannabis to enhance your physical fitness routine, one of the most intriguing aspects of the connection between cannabis and fitness lies in its potential for post-workout recovery and relief.

Both THC and CBD have gained popularity for their alleged anti-inflammatory properties and potential to alleviate muscle soreness. While more clinical research is needed, some athletes and fitness enthusiasts are turning to CBD-infused products like creams and balms to ease post-exercise discomfort.

The Science Behind the Connection

While much is still unknown about the science behind cannabis and our bodies – it’s important to understand how the connection between cannabis and physical fitness is complex, yet not a coincidence.

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes within our bodies. All terpenes, cannabinoids, and compounds found in cannabis interact with the ECS in their own unique and individual way. No matter the signal or response your body is giving off – stress, pain, inflammation, even fatigue – the compounds in cannabis bind and interact with the endocannabinoid receptors in the ECS to signal these messages and return the body to homeostasis.

For workout and post-workout recovery routines in particular, there are a couple of ways cannabis and cannabinoids can provide therapeutic relief to athletes and workout enthusiasts.

Pain Management

Depending on your body and workout routine, pain and muscle soreness are common symptoms of a successful workout! Research suggests that cannabinoids may help modulate pain perception. More specifically, a 2015 clinical study found that CBD could reduce pain and improve sleep in individuals with chronic pain conditions.

This potential of cannabis for pain management has led to exploration in the context of workout-related discomfort and soreness. Soothing muscle balms, topicals, and transdermal patches are often used for pain relief and recovery after working out.

Controlling Inflammation 

Inflammation is a natural response to exercise, but excessive or prolonged inflammation can hinder recovery and cause long-term damage or pain.

One specific study in 2020 from the Frontiers of Pharmacology journal reviews how cannabis, particularly CBD, may provide therapeutic and anti-inflammatory effects that could aid in these post-workout symptoms and soreness.

Best Cannabis Products at Full Harvest Moonz for Workout and Recovery 

At both our Lowell and Haverhill cannabis dispensaries, you’ll find a wide range of products fit for any workout routine or physical fitness goals! From topicals to soothe muscle soreness, and energizing drink mixes to help hit your new personal record – there’s a cannabis product ready to enhance and elevate your traditional fitness routine.

Stay High-drated & Energized with Vibations 

Infused with 30mg of natural caffeine from guarana and 5mg of full-spectrum cannabis, Vibations High + Energy drink mix offers a unique and natural way to enhance your workout experience.

This precision-dosed blend provides a powerful combination to energize both body and mind. Made with all-natural ingredients and added vitamins and electrolytes, Vibations brings on revitalizing high-dration in every sip, making it an excellent choice for those looking to elevate their fitness routine with a naturally energizing boost.

• Available in a variety of gluten-free, vegan, and natural flavors – find Vibations at both our Lowell and Haverhill dispensaries. 

Increased Energy On the Go with 1906 Go Drops

Formulated with a dynamic blend of cannabis, caffeine, and three potent plant medicines—Theobromine, L-Theanine, and Alpinia Galanga— the Go Drops for Energy by 1906 are crafted to effectively boost energy levels. With a quick activation time of just 20 minutes, simply swallow these pills from 1906 for a convenient and efficient way to enhance your workout and sustain energy.

• For your next workout, grab a tin bottle of 1906 Go cannabis drops at both our dispensaries in Haverhill and Lowell.

Find Balance & Bliss with Tangerine 1:1:1 Gummies from Coast Cannabis Co.

For a more rejuvenating post-workout experience, the Tangerine gummies from Coast Cannabis Co. are infused with a 1:1:1 ratio of THC, CBG, and CBD. This harmonious mix of cannabinoids crafts the balance of an uplifting high with the synergistic relieving effects of both CBG and CBD. This ratio is ideal for those not necessarily looking for a potent post-workout high, but just enough of a slight buzz to bring relaxation and bliss after a successful workout or physical activity. Bright orange and citrusy flavors burst through with each bite of these gummies!

• Enjoy the bursts of bliss and orange, citrusy flavors from Coast Cannabis Co.’s Tangerine 1:1:1 gummies at both our Lowell & Haverhill dispensary locations.

Soothe Muscle Aches with Transdermal Gels & Topicals 

For a cannabis workout or recovery companion that’s less consumable and more topical, consider a cannabis-infused balm, gel, or topical to alleviate soreness and muscle pain. Topicals work by being applied directly to the affected area and absorbed through the skin, alleviating any inflammation or pain.

• For extra strength and relief, the 1:1 Muscle Salve from The Heirloom Collective is formulated with 250mg of both THC & CBD for a balanced yet potent relief of muscle soreness, inflammation, or chronic pain. Grab this topical at our Haverhill dispensary location today!

• Sanctuary Medicinals’ Transdermal Gel is a gel topical infused with full-spectrum cannabis Liquid Shatter and a proprietary essential oil blend. This formulation contains permeation enhancers to help cannabinoids penetrate the skin barrier and become absorbed into the bloodstream effectively. The Transdermal Gel is an ideal mix for relieving joint and muscle inflammation, and can be found at our dispensary in Lowell!

Enhance Your Exercise Routine with Cannabis from Full Harvest Moonz

No matter if you’re looking for a slight psychoactive boost with THC, or a more calming and rejuvenating post-workout feel from CBD – there is no wrong way to include cannabis in your physical fitness routine! The important detail to remember is your specific intent and use of cannabis in workouts and recovery.

Keep in mind, before incorporating cannabis into your fitness routine, be sure to stay well-informed on the products you use, start with low doses, and consult with a healthcare professional for any specific questions, (especially if you have pre-existing health conditions).

The connection between exercise and cannabis is growing in interest, with plenty of innovative, energizing, and relieving products to explore – consider Full Harvest Moonz a playground for you to explore all the cannabis options!

For those seeking new ways to elevate their fitness journey, stop by either our Haverhill or Lowell locations to browse our full menu and the variety of product categories for you to choose from.

If you have questions about a specific product, or effect, or want clarity on what to expect – have no fear! Our incredible team of budtenders are here to guide you through choosing the best cannabis product for your workout routine.

Learn more tips about cannabis consumption and exercise on our blog page, or find the closest Full Harvest Moonz recreational dispensary near you today!