Imagine getting high, whether you’ve experienced cannabis firsthand or never tried it before. What does it look like? How does it feel? Perhaps heavy or lazy where all you wanna do is flop on the couch and watch TV. Sure, that totally happens. But it can actually have the opposite effect — depending on the strain of cannabis you choose, you could feel light and buzzy enough for a workout!
Not only have I been in the cannabis industry for as long as I can remember, I’m also a certified pilates instructor with more than 20 years under my belt. And, the two complement each other! Cannabis is not so much about smoking and getting high — it supports a plant-based lifestyle, one that values physical and mental wellness. So, let’s learn more about the best cannabis strains, and how it can help your workouts!
The most well-known strains are indica and sativa. The terpenes (aromatic compounds) they’re made of have different effects. Think of indica from that first image of lounging on the couch — its variations can be a bit intoxicating, relaxing. But sativa, on the other hand, is known for its high-energy variations and can have you bouncing around, giving you a boost of what’s known in Chinese medicine at Qi. What more can you ask for before exercise?
That energy boost is ideal to begin a workout, but it also remains helpful throughout, sharpening your mental focus. When you’re working out, being stoned can lead to zoning in, meditating on your practice and keeping you present in the moment. Which can be hard! A big hurdle to exercise is being distracted and unmotivated and resistant, like you just can’t get yourself to do it. But smoking sativa can make it fun, keeping you from constantly thinking, “When is this going to end?!”
So, get high and exercise — and later cool down — with these five strains. Happy workout!
Green Crack
Green Crack is an uplifting, energetic strain that is a total mood-lifter before a workout. Get your favorite playlist ready and take a puff before you hit the gym or group fitness class. Originally named Cush, the strain was renamed by renowned cannabis enthusiast Snoop Dogg for its strong sativa-esque properties. And, in 2015 it placed 3rd for Best Sativa at the Denver High Times Cannabis Cup.
Sour Diesel
Also called Sour Deez or Sour D, this strain has been dubbed the East Coast energy drink. Its euphoric effects make it a match made in heaven with working out. It makes me happier while exercising and even motivates me to mix up my routine. It’s also widely used for alleviating pain, making working out a more comfortable reality for many.
Gelato
Gelato is my post-workout go-to. Also known as Larry Bird, it’s euphoric and creates a functional high that helps relax the body and its muscles, which is blissful and so necessary after an intense workout.
GSC (Girl Scout Cookies)
GSC is actually an indica hybrid that has a high level of THC. It has a reputation for being an ideal sociable strain, perfect for a group fitness class. Your journey will begin euphorically and then melt into full-body relaxation.
Blue Dream and Northern Lights Recovery tends to be put on the back burner, but it’s a crucial component of exercise! When it’s time to reset. Blue Dream will coax your body into pure relaxation, and Northern Lights will knock you out before bed, leading to the best, most restful sleep of your life.
