Marijuana & Bodybuilding: How Does Marijuana Effect Muscle?
Reading Time: 4 minutes Marijuana and bodybuilding have a contentious relationship. Some bodybuilders advocate for cannabis use, citing its relaxing and recovery benefits, while others remain skeptical of its role in enhancing performance or muscle growth.
As marijuana legalization continues to expand, more individuals are exploring its potential benefits in various areas, including fitness and bodybuilding.
However, some US states, like West Virginia, have only legalized cannabis for medical use. As a result, residents of that state would need to consult a doctor in order to obtain a WV medical marijuana card.
Regardless, it’s important to distinguish between anecdotal evidence and scientific findings when considering the effects of marijuana on bodybuilding. Additionally, the specific form of cannabis—THC vs. CBD—plays a significant role in the potential outcomes.
Understanding the Endocannabinoid System
The human body’s endocannabinoid system plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis by regulating functions such as immune response, sleep, stress, and appetite. Cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) interact with two primary receptors in this system: CB1 and CB2.
THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, binds to these receptors, resulting in various effects on mood, pain, and appetite. CBD, on the other hand, interacts differently, offering potential anti-inflammatory and recovery benefits without the psychoactive high.
Understanding this distinction is crucial for bodybuilders considering cannabis for recovery or performance.
Marijuana and Physical Performance
When it comes to physical performance, research on marijuana is still limited and inconsistent. A 2017 meta-analysis in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport concluded that none of the 15 studies involving THC and exercise protocols demonstrated improvements in aerobic performance.
Marijuana’s psychomotor-impairing effects may reduce coordination and reaction times, making high-intensity activities difficult.
However, some athletes report that using marijuana can enhance their focus or create a “flow” state during less intense activities, such as running or yoga. Avery Collins, an ultramarathon runner, claims that cannabis helps enhance his endurance and overall experience during races.
However, this anecdotal evidence is yet to be substantiated by scientific research.
See Also: Cannabis and Exercise
Marijuana and Muscle Growth
One of the main concerns for bodybuilders is whether marijuana can impact muscle growth. Muscle growth is primarily influenced by hormones like testosterone and growth hormone (GH).
Early studies, such as a 1976 paper published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, suggested that large doses of THC could suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, resulting in decreased GH production.
However, this study involved a very high daily dose of THC (210 mg), far beyond what most users typically consume. More recent research indicates that moderate cannabis use has minimal effects on testosterone or other key hormones involved in muscle growth.
Still, it’s important to consider individual responses to cannabis. While some bodybuilders may find marijuana helps them relax and recover, others may experience negative side effects, such as impaired focus or overeating, which could hinder progress.
See Also: Cannabis and Exercise
Personal Behavior
The effects of marijuana on bodybuilding are largely dependent on personal behavior. For example, cannabis use can lead to increased appetite, commonly known as “the munchies.” If a bodybuilder consumes excessive amounts of unhealthy food after using marijuana, this can negatively impact their nutritional goals.
Conversely, using marijuana or consuming cannabis concentrates may enhance recovery by promoting relaxation and sleep, key components of muscle repair and growth. Bodybuilders who use marijuana in moderation and maintain discipline with their diet and training may find it to be a helpful recovery tool.
Whether you are just starting bodybuilding or you have been a bodybuilder for years, your own personal behavior will likely make the difference in whether marijuana affects your muscle growth or not.
CBD and Bodybuilding
CBD, a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, offers a different set of benefits. CBD is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it an attractive option for athletes and bodybuilders who experience chronic pain or inflammation.
Unlike THC, CBD does not impair cognitive function or psychomotor abilities, making it safer for regular use without the risk of performance impairment.
Many bodybuilders use CBD oil or other CBD products for post-workout recovery to reduce soreness, enhance sleep quality, and improve joint health.
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Final Thoughts: Can Bodybuilders Use Marijuana?
When used responsibly, marijuana—especially CBD products—can offer benefits for muscle recovery, pain relief, and relaxation. However, it is important for bodybuilders to be mindful of how cannabis affects their behavior, particularly in terms of diet and motivation.
The current scientific research is still inconclusive, with limited studies specifically examining marijuana’s effects on strength training and muscle growth.
Ultimately, individual response plays a significant role, and bodybuilders should monitor how cannabis affects their specific fitness goals.
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