Cannabis users are more physically active than non-users, especially in states with legal recreational cannabis

After adjusting for demographics, smoking, BMI, and legalization status, cannabis users had 24% higher odds of physical activity (OR 1.24). In states with legal recreational cannabis, the adjusted OR was 1.47. In medical-only states, the association was not significant (OR 1.05). Among users with chronic medical conditions, cannabis use offset the lower physical activity typically seen in that group.

Analysis of BRFSS data from 2016-2022 using logistic regression to examine the association between past-30-day cannabis use and physical activity among US adults, stratified by legalization status and chronic medical conditions.

The persistent stereotype that cannabis makes people sedentary is contradicted by large population data. The finding that cannabis users with chronic conditions maintain activity levels comparable to healthy non-users suggests cannabis may facilitate physical activity for people managing pain or other barriers.

The doubling of cannabis use alongside stable or increasing physical activity rates challenges simple narratives about cannabis and motivation. The legalization-specific effect suggests that recreational access may attract a different user profile than medical programs.

Cross-sectional design cannot determine whether cannabis promotes activity, active people are more likely to use cannabis, or a third factor drives both. Self-reported data for both cannabis use and physical activity. BRFSS samples vary by state participation.