How does cannabis use influence physical activity or other behaviors? This is what a recent study published in Addictive Behaviors hopes to address as a team of researchers investigated a link between cannabis use and the “lazy stoner” myth, which is a longstanding conundrum stating that cannabis use results in reduced physical activity. This study has the potential to help researchers better understand the link between cannabis and specific behaviors while also separating fact from fiction regarding cannabis use.
The study notes, “Cannabis use has increased in the United States as states have legalized/decriminalized recreational and/or medicinal use. The primary aim of this study was to examine daily associations between cannabis use and health (physical activity [PA]) and substance use (alcohol consumption, cigarette use) behaviors.”
For the study, the researchers conducted a survey of 98 participants over a 28-day period who has used cannabis at least once during the study 28-day period. Participants were asked about their behavioral patterns on days they used cannabis compared to days they didn’t use cannabis. In the end, the researchers found a positive correlation between cannabis use and physical activity, with participants reporting 3.31-minute greater physical activity, 0.45 more alcoholic drinks, and 0.63 more cigarettes on cannabis use days compared to non-use days.
The study concluded, “Overall, findings indicated that daily cannabis use is associated with higher engagement in these daily health and substance use behaviors. Further research is needed to understand mechanisms linking cannabis use with these and other behaviors.”
As noted by the study, legalized cannabis use continues to rise throughout the United States, and studies like this could help alleviate any stigmas pertaining to cannabis use while demonstrating the benefits of cannabis use, as well.
What new discoveries about cannabis use and physical activity will researchers make in the coming years and decades? Only time will tell, and this is why we science!
As always, keep doing science & keep looking up!
Sources: Addictive Behaviors, Marijuana Moment
