Gym chain thought to be among first in UK to be offering people ‘cannabis’ yoga Gym goers at the ‘cannabliss’ classes are given a patch infused with cannabidiol, known as CBD

A gym chain in London is thought to be among the first in the UK to offer yoga classes which draw on the properties of cannabis.

Customers who attend the “cannabliss” sessions are given a patch infused with cannabidiol, known as CBD, before getting started on their stretches and poses.

The non-psychoactive substance – which is harvested from cannabis plants – is believed by many to alleviate pain, as well as other conditions such as epilepsy, arthritis and diabetes.

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It is also said to help with a range of other symptoms such as stress, depression, anxiety and insomnia.

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The classes are being offered by the chain Gymbox at eight of its venues and were brought in as part of its aim to launch four to five new classes every quarter.

The chain said it noticed the use of CBD oil was becoming a trend and thought it would lend itself well to deep stretching or rehabilitation classes.

“This combined with the stretches and mobility exercises helps to relieve aches and pains that most desk workers experience as well as relieving stiffness from a frequent exercise,” said Gymbox group fitness manager Hannah Curtis Well.

“Cannabliss has become one of our most popular classes since its launch. It fills up within minutes of booking being open.”

“This combined with the stretches and mobility exercises helps to relieve aches and pains that most desk workers experience as well as relieving stiffness from a frequent exercise,” she said.

“The Cannabliss class is perfect for those sat at a desk all day looking to relieve those niggly aches and pains or for those who spend a lot of time in the gym.”

The use of medical marijuana products was legalised by the government last year but there are strict rules about the circumstances in which it can be prescribed.

The move followed concerns from parents of children with conditions such as severe epilepsy.

Change in legislation

“Having been moved by heartbreaking cases involving sick children, it was important to me that we took swift action to help those who can benefit from medicinal cannabis,” Home Secretary Sajid Javid said at the time.

“We have now delivered on our promise and specialist doctors will have the option to prescribe these products where there is a real need.

“I’m grateful to the expert panel – who have been considering cases in the interim – and to those who’ve worked hard to bring about this change at the earliest possible opportunity.”