As marijuana becomes more accessible than ever before thanks to voters in many states across the country, its stigma for users is beginning to loosen. Researchers, in fact, are now starting to examine how weed can enhance athletic performance. Here’s what some experts are saying on the subject.

It Can Reduce Inflammation

Muscle and joint inflammation is an issue for athletes, and many studies have found that CBD oil, the nonpsychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana, can provide relief. Athletes who want to enjoy the benefits of CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties can do so without smoking pot or getting high by using topical products.

It Can Ease Soreness and Pain

In addition to reducing inflammation, cannabis can also help to ease soreness and pain. This is good news for anyone who wants to avoid the highly addictive opiate painkillers that are so frequently prescribed by physicians. Chronic pain sufferers credit marijuana with not only alleviating their physical discomfort but improving their overall quality of life.

It Can Improve Sleep

Good quality sleep is beneficial to athletic performance. Insomnia is a problem for many people, and THC naturally includes sleep. It has also been shown to suppress dreams, which is a benefit for people who suffer from PTSD. Many prescription sleep aids are habit-forming and have serious side effects. 

It Can Reduce Muscle Spasms

Treating muscle spasms is another area of medical application for cannabis use. People who have conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s have found relief with weed use, and the benefits they enjoy could extend to athletes who are suffering from muscle spasms. This is likely related to the anti-inflammatory properties of marijuana. 

It Can Improve Mental Alertness

Although there is a stereotype of the pot smoker sitting on the couch, idly playing video games, the truth is that marijuana can have positive effects on brain function. Studies with mice showed that low doses of THC improved cognitive function. Many people also credit cannabis with improving their ability to focus. Marijuana reduces anxiety, which can help people achieve a meditative state. This can contribute to an athlete’s success.

Experts who tout the ways marijuana can improve athletic performance also offer these caveats. Smoking pot—or anything else—can cause structural and other damage to the lungs. They also warn against using marijuana to get high and then performing sport activities. Being high can impair motor coordination as well as decision-making abilities. Marijuana use has also shown that it increases the risk of heart attack in the hour after use. It seems clear that although marijuana can be a positive part of any athlete’s ability to perform well, common sense should also be used.

Whether you are a serious athlete or just a weekend warrior, stop at our Denver weed shop to find out more about how pot can improve your performance. At Altitude the Dispensary, we have a wide range of strains, edibles, extracts, and other products, and our knowledgeable budtenders are always happy to help you find the right product. Stop at one of our three Denver locations today!