Cannabis Containing THC Impairs 20-Minute Cycling Time Trial Performance Irrespective of the Method of Inhalation
Abstract
Herein we examine the human exercise response following cannabis inhalation, with consideration of varied cannabinoid concentrations and different inhalation methods. A semi-randomized crossover study design was used, with measures of physiological and psychological responses to submaximal and maximal exercise. Participants completed exercise after 1) smoking THC-predominant cannabis (S-THC), 2) inhaling aerosol (vaping) from THC-predominant cannabis (V-THC), 3) inhaling aerosol from CBD-predominant cannabis (V-CBD), or 4) under control conditions. All exercise was performed on a cycle ergometer, with submaximal testing performed at 100W, and exercise performance evaluated using an all-out 20-min time trial. Metabolism was characterised via analysis of expired gases while subjective ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were reported. During submaximal cycling, heart rate was higher during S-THC and V-THC compared to both control and V-CBD (all p0.1). Mean power output during the 20-min time trial was significantly lower in the S-THC and V-THC conditions compared to both control, and V-CBD (all p<0.04). Cannabis containing THC alters the physiological response to maximal and submaximal exercise, largely independent of the inhalation method. THC-containing cannabis negatively impacts vigorous exercise performance during a sustained 20-min effort, likely due to physiological and psychotropic effects. Inhalation of cannabis devoid of THC and primarily containing CBD has little…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design.
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