With a new year comes new resolutions. For many, working out is at the very top of that New Year’s resolution list. We all want to get into better shape in the new year. But, how many of us actually stick to that goal? As we all know too well, not many. In fact, a reported two-thirds of people abandon their New Year’s resolution within a month. It’s no surprise either. The mundanity of running on a treadmill. The body aches from lifting weights. None of that makes it easy to keep up the habit of working out.
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So, how can we make it all a little more bearable? Maybe it’s time to rethink the way we define a “runner’s high”. You may think it sounds crazy, but a reported “80% of cannabis users mix weed and working out.” That’s right! Despite the popular belief that all weed does is make you tired and lay around all day, certain strains of cannabis can actually give you the energy you need to get through your daily workout routine. In addition, the benefits of CBD can help relax those muscles after you’ve put them through a strenuous workout. This year we’re putting the “lazy stoner” myth to rest and getting high before we hit the gym!
Best Strains Before You Hit the Gym
Harlequin
This sativa strain is the descendant of Colombian Gold, a Nepali indica, and Thai and Swiss landrace strains. Harlequin is known for providing clear-headed effects and relaxation without sedation, making it perfect for you to get your head in the game. This strain also contains high levels of CBD. Therefore, it may also help with any muscle soreness you experience from your exercise. In addition, this strain contains myrcene, a terpene known for its anti-inflammatory properties. All of these properties combined make this strain the optimal choice before any workout that might leave you especially sore.
Sound like the right strain for you? Try our 1:1 Harlequin Cape Cartridge from Northwest Concentrates
Durban Poison
This pure sativa flower, named after the South African port city of Durban, is known for its energetic and uplifting effects. In fact, some even call this strain the ‘espresso’ of cannabis because of the energy it gives them. For this reason, Durban Poison is the perfect strain for a productive workout session.
Sound like the right strain for you? Try our Durban Poison [.5g] 4 Pack Pre-Roll by Flight 9
East Coast Sour Diesel
This attitude-lifting sativa flower is known for its sour lemon smell and uplifting effects. This strain is also known for the energy is gives users. In fact, some refer to it as the “energy drink of weed”. As a result, this strain may not be the best option for anyone struggling with anxiety. But, it is definitely the perfect pre-workout motivator for those looking for a powerful, high-energy feeling.
Sound like the right strain for you? Try our Sour Diesel [.5g] pre-roll by Wicked
Super Lemon Haze
This sativa-dominant hybrid is the child of Lemon Skunk and Super Silver Haze. This citrusy, sweet strain is known for its energetic and lively effects as well as its tart, sweet flavor. This strain is a good pre-workout for those looking to get some sweetness and energy before they hit the gym.
Sound like the right strain for you? Try our Super Lemon Haze Disposable Vape by Crystal Clear
Jack Herer
Also known as “The Jack”,“JH”,”Premium Jack”, or “Platinum Jack” this sativa-dominant strain is named after the legendary late cannabis activist and author of The Emperor Wears No Clothes. This strain came to be after combining a Haze hybrid with a Northern Lights #5 and Shiva Skunk cross. Jack Herer is known for giving users a nice boost of energy and creativity while still remaining attentive. As a result, this is a good choice to smoke before you workout if you’re looking for that boost of energy that won’t take you out of the moment.
Sound like the right strain for you? Try our Jack Herer by Artizen Cannabis
Pineapple Express
Popularized by the 2008 movie of the same name, Pineapple Express is a sativa-dominant hybrid strain made by crossing Trainwreck with Hawaiian. This strain produces long-lasting energetic effects, so it’s a great choice if you plan to workout for a while. Along with feeling energized you’ll also be buzzy, alert, and creative. This is another strain that is good for pain as well as fatigue. So, your muscles will thank you for smoking this before you workout!
Sound like the right strain for you? Try our Pineapple Express Wax by Leafwerx
Chocolope
Also known as “D-Line”, this strain is a popular sativa made by crossing Chocolate Thai with Cannalope Haze. Not only does this strain have notes of sweet coffee, it’ll give you energy just like a shot of espresso. This is the strain for you if you’re looking for a strong sense of euphoria before you hit the gym to workout.
Sound like the right strain for you? Try our Chocolope Diamond Caviar by Dank Czar
Best Post-Workout Strains and Products
Cannatonic
This CBD dominant strain is made by crossing MK Ultra and G13 Haze. The high you get is short-lived and mellow while also helping you feel uplifted and relaxed. In fact, this strain is the choice of many who suffer from anxiety, migraines, and muscle spasms. Above all, the powerful relaxing properties of this strain make it perfect for puffing after you workout to help you wind down after going hard in the gym.
Sound like the right strain for you? Try our Cannatonic from Driftboat
Do-Si-Dos
This indica-dominant hybrid strain is the child of OKGB and shares many of the same qualities. This earthy strain will put you in a relaxed state that melts all the way over your body and may have you drifting off into dreamland. This flower is perfect for those who want nothing more than to crash onto the couch or even take a well-deserved nap after an intense workout. Certainly it’s no surprise that Do-Si-Dos won Leafly’s Strain of the Year 2021!
Sound like the right strain for you? Try our Do-Si-Dos from Blue Roots Cannabis Co.
Wedding Cake
Also known as Triangle Mints #23, this strain is a potent indica-hybrid made by crossing Triangle Kush with Animal Mints. Wedding Cake is a popular choice among those who suffer from pain and insomnia. The relaxing and euphoric effects this strain has on both the mind and body make it the perfect choice for a post-workout toke. This is another Leafly Strain of the Year winner, taking the title back in 2019. This strain may give you the munchies. So, make sure to reach for something healthy!
Sound like the right strain for you? Try our Wedding Cake by Good Earth Cannabis
Northern Lights
This indica strain is made by crossing Afghani with Thai. This sweet and spicy flower is known to produce euphoric effects, relax your muscles, and soothe your mind. This strain is the favorite of those who suffer from depression, stress, pain, and insomnia. Northern Lights also contains myrcene to help you with your anti-inflammatory needs. So, this is a great choice after a strenuous workout to really let loose and relax.
Sound like the right strain for you? Try our Northern Lights Wax by Big Rig
Granddaddy Purple
Also known as Grand Daddy Purp, this strain is a famous indica cross of Mendo Purps, Skunk, and Afghanistan. This strain delivers potent effects making you feel utterly euphoric and physically relaxed after smoking. Make sure you’ve gotten in all the exercise you wanted for the day because once you smoke this kush you’ll be spending the rest of the day on the couch. This is a great choice if you are especially looking for something to help alleviate any muscle pain brought on by your workout. Grandaddy Purple is another strain known for giving you the munchies. So, keep a bowl of grapes or another healthy snack nearby!
Sound like the strain for you? Try our Grandaddy Purple [.5g each] 7-Pack Pre-Rolls by Twisted Legion
Scooby Snacks
This potent indica-dominant hybrid crosses Platinum Girl Scout Cookies with Face Off OG. This kush has an earthy flavor with a sweet aftertaste and often leaves people with a heavy weight on their eyes and relaxing feeling all over their body. So, this is the perfect choice for anyone looking to fall into a deep sleep after they workout and have a calm, happy experience.
Sound like the strain for you? Try our Scooby Snacks Wax by Hard Hat Extracts
Zkittlez
Also known as “Skittles”, “Skittlz”, or “Island Skittles” this indica strain is bred from a mix of Grape Ape and Grapefruit that is crossed with another undisclosed strain. Zkittlez is known for relaxing the body and helping you unwind while still keeping you focused and alert. So, this is a good choice for those who want to relax without completely zoning out.
Sound like the right strain for you? Try our Zkittlez [1g] Infused Blunt
CBD Topicals
After your workout you’re sure to be feeling the burn. Your muscles are sore and you feel like you never want to workout again. Luckily, CBD’s got your back (and any other part of your body that may be sore). CBD is a great natural anti-inflammatory sure to sooth any sore and tender muscles you may have strained during your rigorous workout routine. CBD products are the best option for those looking for the benefits of cannabis without the high of THC. In addition, CBD topicals come in a variety of options!
CBD+ Healing Stick by Wildflower
Want an easy roll-on you can take in your gym bag? Try our CBD+ Healing Stick by Wildflower
Recovery 2oz Body Lotion (350mg CBD)
Need some moisture? Try our Recovery 2oz Body Lotion (350mg CBD)
20:1 – 1oz Skin Rescue by Mr.Moxey’s
Have cracked itchy skin that could use some TLC and THC? Try our 20:1 (200mg CBD/10mg THC) 1oz Skin Rescue by Mr.Moxey’s
Conclusion
In short, weed may be the key to helping you get through the end of the year without breaking your New Year’s resolution of working out more. Smoking before you workout will uplift you, giving you the energy and motivation you need to get through a lap around the track or some reps on the weight machine. Once you get home, a nice puff of some Grand Daddy Purp or applying some nice soothing CBD balm will help you wind down and ensure you don’t have to deal with achey tired muscles so you can keep going hard the next day. So the next time someone tells you that all weed is good for is spending the day on the couch, show them this article!
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Want to learn more about incorporating weed into your workout routine? Check out our article on the pros and cons of smoking weed before working out.
Products listed are available at Cinder locations: Cinder North, 6010 N Division St, Spokane, Wa 99208; Cinder Downtown, 927 W 2nd Ave, Spokane, WA 99201; and Cinder Valley, 1421 N Mullen Rd B, Spokane Valley, Wa 99206
This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit-forming. Which is to say, cannabis can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Therefore, do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. Furthermore, there may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. To sum up, keep out of the reach of children.