Vaping and Fitness

Can Vaping Impact Your Workout Performance?

When it comes to smoking and workouts, they are not a good mix. Tobacco products containing toxins, tar, and carbon monoxide can significantly affect your health and body. So how does vaping compare in terms of its impact on fitness? In this article, we will delve into the effects of vaping on your workouts and gym sessions.

Vaping vs Smoking

Vaping is undeniably a healthier choice compared to smoking. Various authorities such as the OHID and Cancer Research UK have recognized e-cigarettes as a 95% safer alternative to traditional tobacco products that involve combustion. According to the NHS, individuals are about twice as likely to quit smoking successfully if they switch to vaping.

The NHS also highlights the thousands of harmful chemicals present in cigarettes, with around 70 known to cause cancer and an increased risk of heart disease, lung disease, and strokes. In contrast, e-liquids do not contain these harmful chemicals or carbon monoxide, and there is no evidence to suggest that passive vaping affects those around you.

Does Vaping Affect Cardio?

In short, yes, but the impact is far less severe compared to smoking. The carbon monoxide and nicotine in cigarettes make the heart work harder and introduce toxins that raise the risk of blood clots and damage to the arteries, leading to blockages. The NHS has stated that “Smoking doubles your risk of having a heart attack, and if you smoke, you have twice the risk of dying from coronary heart disease than lifetime non-smokers (NHS Wirral University Teaching Hospital).”

Cigarettes’ harmful chemicals also contribute to artery hardening, reducing blood flow^[1]. However, switching to vaping has been shown to decrease vascular stiffness, as indicated by a 2019 study conducted by George, J et al.

Nicotine, which is common to both vaping and smoking, causes a temporary increase in blood pressure, although this change is not long-lasting, according to a report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

Lung function is another crucial aspect of cardio workouts, and smoking greatly impacts breathing due to the accumulation of tar and harmful chemicals. A 2019 study by e-cigarette direct revealed that 70% of users who switched to e-cigarettes noticed a significant improvement in their breathing.

If you are a smoker, transitioning to vaping can notably enhance your cardio workout, but if you have not used either, it is advisable to steer clear.

Can Vaping Affect Muscle Gain?

Surprisingly, vaping can hinder muscle growth, particularly when nicotine is involved. Nicotine interferes with the process of apoptosis, which is essential for new cell formation and muscle growth, causing it to slow down^[2].

For those aiming to build muscle, it is recommended to consider switching to lower-strength e-liquids or opting for nicotine-free options.

Vaping and Fitness – Staying Hydrated

You may notice that vaping can lead to dryness in your mouth, attributable to the PG and VG components in e-liquids absorbing moisture. While this is not dangerous, it is advisable to keep a drink handy.

Fortunately, staying hydrated is also essential during workouts, so most individuals already have a water bottle within reach.

The Best Vape Kits For Your Gym Bag

When selecting a vape to bring to the gym, opt for a model that is compact, lightweight, and easy to use. Here are some examples of kits that would be ideal additions to your gym bag.

Pre-filled pod kits

Small open tank kits

Vaping and Fitness – Conclusion

In summary, vaping can impact workouts in both positive and negative ways. If muscle building is your goal, nicotine is not advantageous. However, for smokers, switching to vaping is highly beneficial as it can improve lung capacity and blood circulation. If you do not smoke or vape, it is strongly recommended to refrain from starting, as it can compromise your fitness levels.

If you have any queries about vaping, do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Sources

[1] https://www.wuth.nhs.uk/support-and-advice/nhs-smoke-free/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17846896/