How Does CBD Work in Sports?

CBD is often used as a way to combat certain ailments or manage general wellness, but how does CBD work in sports? Athletes are constantly looking for new ways to gain a competitive edge, and CBD has become the latest craze. These products provide a wealth of benefits that complement athletic endeavors and sports enthusiasts alike. From post-workout balms to protein-rich energy bars, athletes can choose from a variety of CBD products to enhance each aspect of their sports regimen. The versatility of CBD products allows athletes to use them in unique ways, making them a desirable addition to any sports regimen. Whether you're a professional athlete, an aspiring amateur, or an enthusiastic hobbyist, CBD can help you in your pursuit of progress.  Here's how.

How CBD Interacts with the Body

A man sitting on a workout benchOne of the many fascinating things about CBD is how it interacts with the body. The subtle, yet distinct difference athletes feel when using CBD can help them gain the edge they're looking for, but how does it all work? CBD (cannabidiol) is a phytocannabinoid that is extracted from the hemp plant and combined with a carrier oil for easy consumption. This oil is often used to formulate other products such as foods, balms, and lotions. Hemp extracts come in a variety of spectrum-types that contain different combinations of cannabinoids that each have their own effects on the body. Cannabinoids interact with the body through a series of lipid-based neurotransmitters called the endocannabinoid system. There are various cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system that each have different roles. The CB1 receptor exists in the brain and influences the central nervous system. The CB2 receptor is present in various locations in the body and primarily influences the peripheral nervous system. Many of the cannabinoids found in the hemp plant directly interface with one of these two receptors. Cannabidiol is unique in that it indirectly interfaces with both CB1 and CB2 receptors.  This interaction influences both the central and peripheral nervous systems which are great for athletes. To play your best, you need both your body and mind to perform at their peak. CBD can help get you there.

Is CBD Safe for Athletes?

A man stretching on the groundWhether on the field mid-game or in the gym getting ready, athletes use CBD to help them achieve peak performance—but is CBD safe for sports? It's amazing what people will put in their bodies to win. Steroids used to be the big thing in sports but those days are gone. Not only were those drugs illegal, but they were also terrible for people's health. Athletes have become aware of the perils of using performance-enhancing chemicals and have begun turning to the power of nature. CBD is a naturally occurring compound that is non-toxic, non-intoxicating, and non-habit forming. Combined with the wealth of physical and mental benefits it provides, this makes CBD a fantastic option for athletes. CBD products are completely safe for athletes and permitted by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

CBD for Recovery

One of the most common ways CBD is used by athletes is for recovery. There are a variety of CBD-infused balms and lotions that are designed specifically for this purpose.  CBDfx Overnight Recovery Balm is a popular option. This product combines CO2-extracted CBD with a variety of powerful botanicals such as primrose, lavender, and Roman chamomile. These ingredients are all carefully selected for their ability to help the body recover after working hard. Athletes appreciate the calming nature of CBD, and its ability to soothe aching muscles. So, if you're looking for the perfect way to enhance your post-sport recovery, CBD is a fantastic option. 

CBD Before Sports

A group of surfers leaving the beachWhen it comes to sports, CBD shouldn't just be an afterthought. You can't work out and eat whatever you want and expect results, nor can you eat well and skip the exercise. When you want to perform your best, you need the whole package.  The effects of CBD are felt more fully if you maintain a regular regimen and this can be accomplished in a number of ways. Some athletes drink a healthy smoothie or protein-shake every morning. This is a great way to get your morning workout started, and adding CBD to the mix can take things to the next level. CBD influences both the central and peripheral nervous system which is particularly beneficial for sports. Many athletes find that when they start their day with CBD, their training feels more focused and they’re able to access their body's full potential. 

Professional Athletes and CBD

Does CBD work in sports? Absolutely! Everyday more professional athletes turn to CBD products to “up” their game. Professional sports have strict guidelines that prohibit the use of certain supplements and drugs due to their unnatural effects. The World Anti-Doping Association was established in 1999 to ensure that athletes don't gain any unfair advantages through the use of chemicals. Though almost all other cannabinoids are prohibited, CBD has been approved for use by W.A.D.A. If you're a professional athlete interested in using CBD, it is recommended that you use products made with CBD isolate. This type of hemp extract is 99.9% CBD and does not contain any potentially risky cannabinoids such as THC. Professional athletes from various disciplines have started to embrace the power of CBD. Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas swears by CBD and says that she “..could have been more pain-free if CBD had been allowed” during her career. Olympic beach volleyball player Kerri Welsh is also a huge fan of CBD and stated that implementing CBD into her routine has increased the amount of sleep she gets and has improved her health and wellness. CBD use has become normalized in the world of professional sports. Athletes everywhere have gotten onboard with these products and it won't be long before we see CBD sponsorships and endorsement deals.

The Best CBD Products for Sports 

A group of larger CBD productsOne of the best things about working CBD into your training regimen is that there's so much variety. You can pick through products until you've tailored your routine to perfection. CBD-infused recovery balms are perfect for those difficult days at the gym, or after a tough game. These products are combined with a variety of soothing ingredients to help you get back out there as fast as possible. Baths are one of the best ways for athletes to relax and loosen up tense muscles. When you're really feeling the burn, try a soothing CBD bath-bomb. These products are immensely popular for sports recovery because they provide the body with a wealth of beneficial compounds and enhance an already relaxing bath. CBD isolate tinctures are a popular way for athletes to stay on top of their CBD regimen both before and after its time to perform. CBD tincture oil can be mixed with a morning smoothie, a post-workout protein shake, or enjoyed on its own. When athletes are looking to stay regular with their CBD use, they often reach for a tincture. Whether you're a professional athlete or not, CBD can provide some impressive benefits.

If you're ready to gain a natural edge in post-workout recovery Click here to check out our full selection of topicals and creams!