After three weeks of monitored abstinence, cannabis users with higher aerobic fitness performed better on visual memory, executive function, and psychomotor speed tests than less-fit cannabis users.
Cannabis users, fitness enthusiasts, and researchers studying cognitive effects of cannabis.
Fitter cannabis users performed better on 3 cognitive tasks
What the researchers found
Increased cannabis use was associated with poorer working memory and psychomotor speed after 3 weeks of abstinence. Higher aerobic fitness (VO2 max) was associated with better visual memory, verbal fluency, and sequencing ability. The interaction between cannabis use and fitness predicted performance on psychomotor speed, visual memory, and sequencing, meaning fit cannabis users performed better than unfit cannabis users on these tasks.
Why it matters
If aerobic fitness can buffer against cognitive effects of cannabis use, exercise could be an accessible and inexpensive intervention for cannabis users concerned about cognitive health.
The numbers in context
79 participants (37 cannabis users). Ages 16-26. 3 weeks monitored abstinence. VO2 max testing. Fitness moderated cannabis effects on psychomotor speed, visual memory, and sequencing ability.
How the study worked
Cross-sectional study of 79 young adults (37 cannabis users) aged 16-26, balanced for aerobic fitness. After 3 weeks of monitored abstinence, participants completed neuropsychological testing and a maximal oxygen consumption test. Multiple regressions controlled for alcohol, nicotine, gender, and depression.
What this study cannot tell us
Cross-sectional design cannot determine causation. Relatively small sample. Cannot determine whether fit users had less severe use patterns or other protective factors. Three weeks of abstinence may not reflect typical use conditions.
How to read the evidence
Well-controlled cross-sectional study with monitored abstinence and objective fitness testing, but cannot establish causation.
When this study was published
2019 study.
The bigger picture
Exercise upregulates CB1 receptor activity and releases endocannabinoids. The finding that fitness moderates cannabis-related cognitive deficits may reflect shared neurobiological pathways.
Questions still open
- Would an exercise intervention improve cognition in current cannabis users? Is there a fitness threshold needed for the protective effect?
Common questions
Does exercise help with cannabis-related cognitive problems?
Does cannabis use impair cognition even after stopping?
Read the original research
Aerobic Fitness Level Moderates the Association Between Cannabis Use and Executive Functioning and Psychomotor Speed Following Abstinence in Adolescents and Young Adults.
Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society : JINS, 25(2), 134-145
Citation
Wade, Natasha E; Wallace, Alexander L; Swartz, Ann M; Lisdahl, Krista M. (2019). Aerobic Fitness Level Moderates the Association Between Cannabis Use and Executive Functioning and Psychomotor Speed Following Abstinence in Adolescents and Young Adults.. Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society : JINS, 25(2), 134-145. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1355617718000966
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