The Los Angeles Marathon is this weekend, making it the perfect time to talk running and cannabis. From consuming infused edibles before a long run to rubbing CBD creams on achy muscles for recovery, there are dozens of ways that cannabis can enhance a run and help improve your performance.
Advantages of Cannabis for Marathon Runners
The research on the effects of cannabis on athletic performance is still in its infancy — as is a lot of the research into the benefits of cannabis and cannabis products. Many doctors agree that cannabis would not be considered a performance-enhancing substance. It won’t make you run faster or make your muscles stronger. However, there are many marathon runners who sing the praises of cannabis in their training.
Firstly, cannabis is a bronchodilator. This opens up the airways of a runner to ensure they’re getting enough oxygen to power through a long run. CBD also has anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve sore muscles and aches that a distance runner might experience during or after a run.
Firstly, cannabis is a bronchodilator. This opens up the airways of a runner.
Marathon runners and other endurance athletes experience a runner’s high. Many believe that this is due to endorphins, but it’s actually due to the activation of the endocannabinoid system. The famous cannabinoid, THC, can enhance a runner’s high and make a long-distance run more enjoyable.
Cannabis Regulations in Marathon Running
Cannabis use is not prohibited recreationally by the World Anti-Doping Agency. While there are regulations for in-competition use and performance-enhancing, the agency is not concerned with out-of-competition use. Cannabidiol (CBD) is exempt and there are no restrictions for its use either in or out of races.
Most races (particularly public ones) do not drug test their racers. If you’re running in a local marathon, it’s not likely that race officials will stop you at the finish line and ask for a blood or urine sample. However, when there’s a large cash prize at stake, such as in the Boston, Chicago, or New York marathons, you should be prepared to submit a sample if asked.
Some marathon events are cannabis friendly and sponsored by some of the biggest names in the cannabis industry. These often take place in California, Colorado, and other locations where cannabis products are viewed more favorably. If you’re a green-friendly runner with impressive athletic ability, you might even be able to score a sponsorship.
