My Experience using Indica Cannabis as a Pre-Workout instead of Sativa

I used to believe a sativa strain would be the best choice as a pre-workout alternative. My experience with them was one of energy and increased heart rate, like most pre-workout supplements I've tried. Occasionally I'd stumble across a good strain for focus and was convinced this would be good for a gym session.

My mind wanted more than physical activity.

But after a few sessions of giving it a shot, I began to lose track of my progress and noticed I was repeating the same routine. Instead of inspiring me to improve my routine, I was losing interest in what I was doing and replacing the moment with bumbled daydreams. It turns out, I'm more suited to use sativa strains for creative tasks that keep my brain busy rather than focusing on improving myself physically.

Learn More: Indica vs Sativa - Infographic

I decided to experiment with an indica.

For a while I got rid of cannabis from my workout completely since it was giving me the opposite results I wanted. I went back to my old ways until I decided I wanted to give indica a go.

Unlike those that I've spoken with, indicas rarely make me sleepy because I've grown accustom to microdosing. Instead, I get a small dose of the bodily sensations that indicas are known for: my muscles relax, tension leaves my neck and shoulders, I feel calm and oddly ready to handle anything, my mind doesn't mind pushing out reps (it doesn't bore of it, rather, is relieved by it).

Well, this turned out to be a great recipe for a great workout. At least, in my case.

My first experience using an indica as pre-workout.

The first time I tried one of my favorite indicas before working out, I experienced one of the longest runs I'd been able to do in eight months. I've never really been a runner, but I reached a personal best that was a big deal for me.

Perhaps it was because I easily zoned in. I allowed my mind to stay distracted with music, and my feet could easily keep up with the tempos of each song that popped into my playlist. My shoulders were relaxed so it was easier for them to assist running.

The knee I once had surgery on didn't feel pain as I ran like it usually did. Nor did it swell. I felt I could seemingly monitor my breathing better, making it easier to run longer.

When I switched to lifting, I was more focused on which muscles I wanted to improve and finding the right exercises suited for them rather than simply falling into a standard routine.

I had found a far better workout booster.

This was a lovely self-revelation. Now, when I wish to use cannabis as an alternative to pre-workout, I know to choose an indica over a sativa. Not only did I enjoy my workout much more, but I was able to push myself further as the mind zoned in on the body and the moment. I experienced far less pain in my knee and shoulders. This is why I believe healthy individuals interested in cannabis as an alternative should experiment with the types of strains they choose for the activities they choose them for.

Share your experience using cannabis before a workout in the comments below.