Inhaling THC-containing cannabis reduced 20-minute cycling time trial power output whether smoked or vaporized, while CBD-only cannabis had no effect on exercise performance.
People interested in how cannabis affects athletic performance and exercise.
THC impaired performance regardless of smoking vs. vaping method
What the researchers found
Both smoked THC and vaporized THC significantly reduced mean power output during a 20-minute cycling time trial compared to control and CBD conditions. Heart rate was elevated during submaximal exercise with THC but not CBD. VO2 and perceived exertion were similar across all conditions during maximal exercise. CBD-dominant cannabis had no effect on any measure.
Why it matters
As cannabis becomes legal in more places, athletes and recreational exercisers increasingly ask whether it affects performance. This is one of the few controlled studies directly measuring exercise output after cannabis use, and it clearly shows THC impairs performance.
The numbers in context
14 participants (9 male, 5 female). THC cannabis: 15-30% total THC. Smoked and vaporized THC both reduced time trial power output vs. control and CBD. Heart rate elevated with THC during submaximal cycling. No effect from CBD on any exercise measure.
How the study worked
Semi-randomized crossover study with 14 participants (9 male, 5 female) aged 25-45. Four conditions: smoked THC, vaporized THC, vaporized CBD, and control. Exercise included submaximal cycling at 100W followed by a 20-minute all-out time trial on a cycle ergometer.
What this study cannot tell us
Small sample size (n=14). Self-supplied cannabis with variable potency. Only cycling tested; other exercise types might differ. Acute effects only; chronic cannabis users might respond differently. No blood THC levels reported.
How to read the evidence
Well-controlled crossover experiment with four conditions and objective performance measures. Limited by small sample size and self-supplied cannabis.
When this study was published
Published in 2024 in the Journal of Applied Physiology.
The bigger picture
The "cannabis and exercise" trend has gained popularity, with some athletes claiming cannabis improves their workouts. This study provides objective evidence that THC impairs maximal exercise performance, while CBD does not affect it positively or negatively.
Questions still open
- Does THC impair performance in endurance sports differently than strength or power sports? Would regular cannabis-using athletes show less performance impairment due to tolerance? Is the elevated heart rate with THC a concern for cardiovascular safety during exercise?
Common questions
Does cannabis make you perform worse during exercise?
Does it matter if you smoke or vape cannabis before exercise?
Read the original research
Cannabis containing THC impairs 20-min cycling time trial performance irrespective of the method of inhalation.
Journal of applied physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985), 136(3), 583-591
Citation
Cheung, Christian P; Baker, Ryleigh E; Coates, Alexandra M; Burr, Jamie F. (2024). Cannabis containing THC impairs 20-min cycling time trial performance irrespective of the method of inhalation.. Journal of applied physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985), 136(3), 583-591. https://doi.org/10.1152/japplphysiol.00757.2023
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