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Running is one of the most beneficial exercise activities a person can do. It reduces the risk of heart disease, burns more calories than just about any cardiovascular option, strengthens joints, reduces stress, and may even lower your risk of cancer. But, running is also one of the most daunting forms of exercise. If you’re not already in shape, it can be tedious and painful, especially when you’re just getting started.
These days, many exercise enthusiasts are adding cannabis to their workout routine. If you like the idea of running, but are having a hard time motivating yourself, getting your Missouri medical marijuana card may be the key to lacing up your sneakers and finally signing up for a 5K.
Important Note: While we make every effort to ensure the information in our blog posts is up-to-date and accurate, this is in no way meant to be taken as medical advice. If you have a condition that may be affected by increasing or changing your level of physical activity, please consult a doctor before adding exercise or cannabis to your fitness regimen.
Cannabis is NOT a Performance Enhancing Drug
When we talk about using cannabis to become a better runner, we mean a more consistent runner. It’s important to be clear that cannabis is NOT going to make you instantly faster or stronger. As Podium Runner reminds us, cannabis before a race may actually “degrade your peak performance.” It can, however, be an effective training tool, especially if you’re looking to boost your focus while going long distances.
Mental Focus
One of the positive effects that many runners who use cannabis have reported is an increase in mental focus. Running can often be a slow, monotonous trudge, but cannabis can keep your mind focused, especially while going long distances.
In an interview with Men’s Journal, Dr. Jordan Tischler, a Harvard-trained expert in cannabis therapeuticals stated that the time to use cannabis is “while you’re doing long mileage, building up to the marathon.”
Podium Runner describes the experience cannabis provides runners as a focus that eliminates distractions and helps them zero in on things such as their breathing rate or paying attention to the the colors of the natural world around them.
Know Your Dosage
Peter Sagal recounted his firsthand experience combining cannabis and running cannabis to Runner’s World. Among the positive benefits he reported were a deepened focus, and the ability to run at a relaxed pace. He did state that running still required effort, so don’t expect to be able to go on autopilot.
Sagal also reported consuming a higher-than-ideal dosage that had his brain jumping around “like a hamster on a treadmill.” It’s important to know your relationship with medical marijuana, and what dose works for you. Be sure to use medical marijuana responsibly. Take a safe amount and ease cannabis into your exercise routine. If you aren’t sure, consult a physician and make a plan together.
Getting a Good Night’s Sleep
Rest is one of the most vital factors to maintaining a steady exercise routine. Unfortunately, one problem that has been known to plague runners is insomnia. Luckily, medical marijuana can be a helpful boone for those looking to get a good night’s sleep. Studies have even shown that many patients prefer cannabis over prescription and over-the-counter sleep aids.
Remember - You Don’t Have to Smoke
Breathing smoke into your lungs may seem like it would make running more difficult. For many people adopting a healthier lifestyle, the idea of inhaling a bunch of smoke simply doesn’t align with their goals. Remember, there are many ways to consume cannabis that don’t involve smoke, such as vaping, edibles, tinctures and topicals. You don’t have to smoke in order to experience the benefits of medical marijuana.
CBD Salves are Great Preventative Maintenance
When it comes to pain and recovery, it’s important to remember most pain relievers are only meant for occasional consumption. Chronic use may have negative gastrointestinal consequences. Many runners are turning to alternative options, such as THC and CBD topicals and salves.
Dr. Junella Chin spoke to Men’s Journal about CBD salves. She said she encourages it as a preventative measure. “I have a lot of my athletes use a topical CBD salve. You can rub it in the joints before, during or after a workout,” shares Dr. Chin. “You know, let’s say I’m on mile three. I’m like, ‘That right knee always just goes at mile three. I just feel it.’ So, I’ll have my patients put the salve on preventatively, and then we keep track of it. And we’ve noticed less pain.”
Ready to Add Medical Marijuana to Your Routine?
If you’re ready to experience the benefits of medical marijuana, but don’t have your card yet, our doctors are standing by. CLICK HERE to schedule your quick and easy medical marijuana evaluation, or give us a call at (877) 303-3117 to talk to a patient support representative.
Doctors Who Care. Relief You Can Trust.
At Missouri Marijuana Card, our mission is helping everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
Call us at (877) 303-3117, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!
Check out Missouri Marijuana Card’s Blog to keep up to date on the latest medical marijuana news, tips, and information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to join the medical marijuana conversation in Missouri
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