Cannabis use for exercise recovery in trained individuals: a survey study
Authors
Anthony G. Pinzone , Emily K. Erb , Stacie M. Humm , Sarah G. Kearney and J. Derek Kingsley
Published
August 5, 2023
Abstract
Background Cannabis use, be it either cannabidiol (CBD) use and/or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) use, shows promise to enhance exercise recovery. The present study aimed to determine if individuals are using CBD and/or THC as a means of recovery from aerobic and/or resistance exercise, as well as additional modalities that might be used
to aid in recovery.
Methods Following consent, 111 participants (Mean ± SD: Age: 31 ± 13 years) completed an anonymous survey. All participants were regularly using cannabis (CBD and/or THC) as well as were currently exercising. Questions pertained to level of cannabis use, methods used for consumption of cannabis, exercise habits, exercise recovery strategies,
and demographics.
Results Eighty-five percent of participants reported participating in aerobic training. In addition, 85% of participants also reported regular participation in resistance exercise. Seventy-two percent of participants participated in both aer- obic and resistance exercise. Ninety-three percent of participants felt that CBD use assisted them with recovery
from exercise, while 87% of participants felt the same regarding THC use.
Conclusions Individuals who habitually use cannabis, CBD or THC, and regularly engage in exercise do feel that can- nabis assists them with exercise recovery. More data are necessary to understand the role of cannabis in exercise recovery as well as perceived ergogenic benefits of cannabis by individuals who both regularly participate in exercise and habitually use cannabis.
Citations
Pinzone, A. G., Erb, E. K., Humm, S. M., Kearney, S. G., & Kingsley, J. D. (2023). Cannabis use for exercise recovery in trained individuals: a survey study. Journal of Cannabis Research, 5(1), 32.