Best Weed Strains for Working Out: Before, During and After Your Workout

The best weed for working out depends on when you use it: energizing sativa-dominant strains with moderate THC before training, balanced THC:CBD strains during, and CBD-rich strains afterward for recovery. Using different types of cannabis around exercise and sports has caught on in recent years, but not all strains are created equal when it comes to effects and benefits.

Whether you want to boost performance, help your recovery or just enjoy your workout more, it's key to understand how different strains and cannabinoids can affect your training.

Here we'll look at which types of weed work best for exercise, taking into account strain type, THC and CBD content, and how these compounds can affect your performance, motivation and recovery.

Whether you're after an energy boost, relief from sore muscles or sharper focus, knowing which weed to pick can help you get more out of your workouts and feel better overall.

Smoking weed and working out

In the sports world, cannabis use is gaining recognition and acceptance, with plenty of high-profile athletes speaking up about its benefits. From marathon runners to weightlifters, some athletes rely on cannabis to sharpen their focus and enjoy their training and competitions more.

That doesn't mean getting super baked before you hit the gym. It's about using moderate doses of cannabis to improve focus and the overall experience.

Famous athletes who back the benefits of weed

More and more well-known athletes are publicly backing cannabis. A standout example is Chris Barnicle, a Los Angeles marathon runner who dubbed himself “the world's fastest stoner” on Twitter and promotes cannabis as part of a healthy lifestyle.

In basketball, former NBA players like Jason Williams and Lamar Odom have also spoken out in favor of cannabis in sports.

These athletes don't credit all their success to weed, but many say certain strains can have a positive impact on performance and recovery. We won't dig into the science here, and the research is still limited, but the growing number of athletes speaking up suggests a lot of people are finding real value in it.

Is it good to smoke weed before working out?

Athletes are interested in cannabis for a few potential reasons:

• Better focus: Some athletes find a moderate dose of cannabis helps them stay locked in during exercise, so they can concentrate on their performance.
• More fun: Cannabis can make physical activity more enjoyable, so exercise feels less like a chore.
• Muscle recovery: Some people claim cannabis can help recovery by easing post-workout pain and inflammation.

What happens if you work out high? Things to keep in mind

Cannabis may offer some benefits, but it's crucial to approach it with caution. Not every athlete will find that cannabis improves their performance, and effects can vary depending on the strain and dose.

Also, rules on cannabis use differ from sport to sport, so make sure you know the policies that apply to your discipline.

Bottom line: cannabis use in sports is gaining acceptance, with more athletes talking up its potential benefits. If you're thinking about adding cannabis to your training or recovery routine, do your homework on how it might affect your performance and overall well-being.

The best cannabis strains for athletic performance

Picking the right strain can make a big difference in your workout routine, whether it's before, during or after training. Each phase of your workout can benefit from a different strain, and choosing the right one can help your performance, focus and recovery. Here's a detailed guide to the best strains for each stage of your training.

Before your workout

Before you start training, pick strains that help you focus and get energized without side effects that could get in the way of your performance. Look for strains with an uplifting, euphoric kick and moderate THC levels.

1. Super Silver Haze (Zamnesia Seeds)

Super Silver Haze is a sativa-dominant strain bred from Haze, Skunk and Northern Lights. It has a sweet, spicy flavor and a balanced head high that fuels productivity and alertness. According to the breeder, it hits around 20% THC and 3% CBD, which makes it a good pick to get you ready to train. A couple of hits are enough for an energy boost without getting too spaced out.

2. Durban Poison (Dutch Passion)

Durban Poison is a pure sativa that grows tall and delivers energizing buds with a licorice and spice flavor. With moderate THC around 14%, it gives you an upbeat, long-lasting high that won't stop you from starting your workout with energy and focus.

3. Jack Herer Automatic (Zamnesia Seeds)

Jack Herer Automatic is an autoflower known for being easy to grow, with smooth, spicy buds. It delivers a strong, fast-acting head high that gets your mind and body ready for physical activity. It carries on the legacy of a classic strain thanks to its knack for boosting productivity and inspiration.

During your workout

To keep your energy and focus up while you train, go for strains with a balanced THC-to-CBD ratio. They can help keep you motivated without the sedation or the munchies.

1. CBD Lemon Potion Auto (Barney's Farm)

CBD Lemon Potion Auto is rich in CBD and carries around 10% THC. Its citrusy, spicy flavors are refreshing, and the CBD helps you stay focused without getting couch-locked mid-session. It's ideal for a quick break to reset your focus.

2. Dance World (Royal Queen Seeds)

Dance World is known for its balance of THC and CBD, at roughly 12% THC and 11% CBD. It delivers an uplifting, euphoric effect that helps keep your focus and energy up, great for long workouts and staying positive.

3. Bubblegum (Zamnesia Seeds)

Bubblegum is a sativa-dominant strain with moderate THC around 19% and 3% CBD. It balances euphoria and relaxation, giving you steady energy and a light creative spark while you train. Its sweet, earthy flavor is a nice bonus.

After your workout

After a hard session, pick strains that help you relax and recover. CBD-rich strains are especially useful at this stage.

1. CBD Fix Automatic (Zamnesia Seeds)

CBD Fix Automatic is high in CBD, around 20%, and it's ideal for easing tension after training. With its piney flavor and citrusy aroma, it won't make you euphoric, so you can recover in peace. It's also easy to grow, which makes it a convenient post-workout option.

2. Atlant CBD (VIP Seeds)

Atlant CBD is a sativa-dominant hybrid that offers the benefits of CBD with little to no high. It's perfect for unwinding and making the most of cannabidiol's effects for a solid post-workout recovery.

3. CBDV Auto (Kannabia)

CBDV Auto is known for its cannabidivarin (CBDV) content, a cannabinoid being studied for its potential benefits, although research on athletes is still early. With earthy flavors and a clear-headed effect, it's a good fit after exercise, helping you recharge and keep a sense of well-being through the day.

Bottom line: picking the right strain can seriously level up your training experience. From prepping before a workout to recovering afterward, each phase calls for a different strain, so keep these factors in mind to get the most out of your performance and well-being.