A growing wave of fitness enthusiasts is reshaping stereotypes about cannabis and exercise. Evidence and firsthand accounts suggest cannabis can make workouts more enjoyable, helping people stay motivated and perhaps even experience a version of the “runner’s high.” In interviews with media and researchers, individuals like Mark, a father in his 40s, describe using cannabis products such as vape pens or edibles to make training more engaging. Mark says while he could complete a marathon without cannabis, the training might have felt more daunting without it.
This shift matters for Thai readers as attitudes toward cannabis evolve. In 2022 Thailand began a partial decriminalization process, opening public discussion about medical and recreational uses. The intersection of cannabis and physical activity challenges older norms about health and drug policy, inviting new conversations about wellness and regulation in Thai society.
The movement emphasizes using cannabis for enjoyment and motivation rather than competition. A physiotherapist from a public university notes that people engage in a wide range of activities while under the influence, from archery to water sports. This aligns with findings from a university study in Colorado showing that cannabis may slightly slow pace, but can make workouts feel more engaging and help participants enter a flow state often associated with enhanced well-being. The study does not present cannabis as a performance enhancer, but rather as a factor that can make exercise feel more enjoyable.
Experts point to cannabis’s interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which influences mood and stress. A researcher from a major university explains that binding at these receptors can produce euphoric effects and reduce stress and anxiety. In a 2023 study, runners reported less pain and a greater sense of well-being after use, even when pace slowed slightly. Still, some participants described negative experiences, such as feeling overly high, increased heart rate, or lightheadedness. This suggests cannabis use for workouts is not universally beneficial and depends on the individual, activity type, and product.
What does this mean for Thai society? Bangkok’s parks are popular destinations for runners and yoga practitioners, and the idea that cannabis could motivate more people to move is appealing in a country facing rising sedentary behavior and metabolic diseases. A global study indicates that physical activity has risen alongside growing cannabis use, hinting at a nuanced relationship. For policymakers in Thailand, regulated, responsible cannabis use could be explored as part of broader public health strategies to increase physical activity, though careful evaluation is needed.
Internationally, the World Anti-Doping Agency continues to ban cannabinoids in professional sport due to health concerns. Advocates argue the ban may reflect outdated views, a concern echoed in Thailand’s ongoing debates about cannabis regulation. The topic intersects with cultural history, as cannabis has long appeared in Thai traditional medicine for pain management and appetite stimulation. Recent policy shifts have spurred a budding cannabis sector, new research, and pilot medical programs that signal a willingness to rethink the plant’s role beyond recreation.
Ongoing research adds nuance. A 2025 animal study suggests cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating component, may support exercise endurance by influencing gut microbiota and muscle recovery. Human data remain preliminary, but indicate that cannabis components could eventually contribute to sports recovery or mental health treatments when used responsibly. More work is needed before public health recommendations can be formed.
Practical guidance for Thai readers considering cannabis and fitness: start with cautious, low, well-measured doses and avoid attempting peak performance while under the influence. Favor non-competitive, low-risk activities such as walking, gentle yoga, or easy jogging rather than intense, reaction-dependent sports. Be mindful of THC/CBD ratios and always follow local laws and gym policies. The overarching goal is to cultivate joy and motivation in movement, improving overall well-being and daily activity levels.
Experts emphasize that if cannabis can help more people engage in exercise safely, it deserves thoughtful consideration. As Thai society continues to balance tradition with innovation, the evolving conversation around cannabis and exercise invites ongoing attention to evidence, public health, and cultural context.
In summary, cannabis may influence how many Thais approach physical activity, but responsible use and clear policy guidance are essential. Communities can explore inclusive conversations about health, habit formation, and access to preventative wellness options that fit Thai values and lifestyles.