In today’s fitness world, people are constantly searching for new ways to stay motivated, improve their workouts, and even enjoy the process a bit more. From pre-workout supplements and protein powders to mindfulness apps and new routines, everyone’s trying to hack their way into better performance.

But what if lighting up some weed was part of that routine? With marijuana now legal in many states, more gym-goers and athletes are experimenting with cannabis as part of their fitness lifestyle. Some claim it gets them into the right mindset, others praise its pain-relieving effects, and a few say it makes their workouts feel smoother and more enjoyable. So, what’s the real deal—could cannabis be your new fitness companion or is it just a hazy idea?

Let’s talk about how it might actually work with your body during exercise. You’ve probably heard of the “runner’s high”—that euphoric feeling that kicks in after a long run. Some users say that cannabis can produce a similar mental state even before the workout begins. Instead of feeling stressed about a tough routine, a little THC might ease your mind and help you stop overthinking every rep. Wellness advocate and yoga teacher Jessamyn Stanley has talked about how cannabis helps her feel more grounded during her sessions, letting her focus on movement instead of anxiety. Mentally, cannabis might offer a few surprising benefits. THC-heavy strains release dopamine in the brain, the chemical that gives you that “feel-good” rush. That shift in brain chemistry can help turn that feeling of “ugh, do I have to?” into a more motivated “let’s do this.”

For repetitive workouts like swimming or cycling, some users say it actually helps them zone in and turn the grind into something almost meditative. Plus, let’s be honest—weed is known to lower anxiety. If the idea of working out in a packed gym makes you anxious, a small dose could help you stay focused without stressing over what everyone else is doing. On the physical side, cannabis is getting a lot of attention for its pain management perks. Both THC and CBD—the two most discussed compounds in marijuana—are known for fighting inflammation. That could make a big difference if you’re dealing with sore muscles from leg day or chronic joint pain.

Dr. Gary Starr from FOCUS says cannabis may even calm the body’s inflammatory response after an intense workout, possibly reducing soreness and helping your muscles bounce back faster. And don’t forget about sleep. Recovery is when the body builds strength, and sleep plays a huge role. Many athletes say cannabis helps them relax and fall asleep more easily, which in turn supports muscle recovery and growth. But what does science say? Well, it’s a mixed bag. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport concluded that cannabis probably doesn’t boost physical performance. In other words, don’t expect to break a sprint record after taking a hit. However, that doesn’t mean it has no value. A survey published in Nature showed that 70% of respondents in legal states said cannabis made their workouts more enjoyable. More importantly, those people also reported working out more often and for longer periods. That’s no small deal—sometimes, showing up consistently is the hardest part of fitness. Still, using weed while exercising isn’t without risks. THC raises your heart rate, which can be dangerous for people with heart conditions. It can also slow your reflexes and throw off your coordination, which matters a lot if you’re lifting weights, climbing, or doing high-intensity routines. Also, cannabis can affect your hydration and glucose levels, so if you’re going to use it, drink lots of water and keep an eye on how your body feels. And remember—dose matters. Everyone has different tolerance levels, so if you’re new to cannabis, don’t dive into edibles or high-THC strains right before a spin class. Start with a puff or two and see how you feel. If you’re curious about the benefits but don’t want the high, CBD might be your best bet. It’s the part of the cannabis plant that doesn’t make you feel stoned but still offers benefits like reduced inflammation and pain relief. Some athletes prefer using CBD oils or topicals after workouts to speed up recovery without the psychoactive effects. The takeaway here is this: cannabis won’t magically boost your fitness or sculpt your dream body. But it might help you stick to your routine, enjoy your workouts more, and recover better. Just like with any tool, it comes down to how you use it. So be smart—know your limits, choose the right strain or product, drink water, and talk to your doctor if you have health concerns. If cannabis helps you feel more connected to your workouts and gets you off the couch, that’s a win in any fitness book.