CBD for sports performance.

Liz Filmer
18 Aug 2021

Sports organisations are increasingly recognising CBD as an essential supplement to help both athletic performance and training recovery. Experienced athletes who take 30 mg or more of CBD per day notice less anxiety before big games. They also benefit from quicker recovery and easier sleep in as little as five days. 


However, don't think that CBD is reserved for use by pro athletes, as everyone can use CBD safely and effectively, from the casual runner, rambler or cyclist to the hardcore Gym lover.

CBD binds to special receptor cells in your body located in the central nervous system and every organ of our bodies. This network is collectively known as the endocannabinoid system. When ingested, CBD binds with the receptors and creates a range of beneficial effects.These effects include protection of the neural network, homeostasis, immune balance and stress recovery. Simply put, CBD assists our bodies in creating and maintaining peak energy balance. Research has found that CBD can help regulate pain and our bodies circadian rhythm and serotonin levels, all of which directly impact stress and mood. 

Every time we do a physical activity, our body breaks itself down to build itself back up, leaving us feeling sore and tired. Cannabinoid receptors to which CBD binds are found predominantly in the brain and cells linked to the immune system. This means that CBD can help you mentally in preparation for sport and after when it assists our bodies immune system and anti-inflammatory mechanism to help speed up recovery. CBD can also improve sports performance by decreasing anxiety without creating an additional high. Many who take CBD as a sports supplement acknowledge that it does help to keep their minds sharp and focused on strategy and performance.

When it comes to workout recovery, unlike other anti-inflammatories, CBD does not upset the stomach lining or increase the risk of Strokes. Research has confirmed that CBD protects muscle cells by suppressing contributors that cause inflammation, swelling, and soreness. The ability of CBD to balance the immune system suggests that it can help keep minor colds and viruses at bay so that the user can sustain optimum training levels. CBD's ability to aid sleep is another bonus that encourages sports recovery to occur quickly and efficiently.

 Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, research confirms that CBD can help decrease the traumatic effects of brain injury. If you are playing a high contact game such as Rugby, CBD could be advantageous. A 60 mg dose following a bump to the head is an excellent addition to the treatment of any concussion. CBD has no intoxicating effects and uses anti-oxidant properties to prevent the death of cells.

CBD does not show up if you are drug tested, so you can take it confidently, knowing that you are not violating any rules of fair play. Drug testing is concerned with eliminating the possibility of unfair advantage. CBD is a compound with no potential for intoxication, addiction, or stimulation, so there is no need to worry. The ability of CBD to enhance performance and recovery makes it a superb addition to anyone's training regimen. 

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Liz Filmer