Sore and achy after a workout? Well, look no further. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound that you can apply topically to achieve relief after lifting weights or running on the treadmill.
About CBD for Athletes
Topical products are a great way to introduce CBD into your workout routine. Although all CBD products are non-psychoactive, topicals typically do not cross the blood-brain barrier. Instead, they provide targeted relief specific to where the product is applied.
There are tons of different topical formulations in the CBD market, from balms and lotions to gels and salves. Some CBD creams also contain menthol, which provides a soothing, cooling sensation to your skin. Together, the CBD and menthol in these products offer a refreshing wave of relief — especially after a hot, sweaty workout.
What Athletes Should Know About CBD
Whether you're a professional athlete or a gym regular, here's what you need to know about CBD:
- Hemp-derived CBD products are federally legal and widely available throughout the United States.
- You do not need a medical marijuana card to purchase hemp-derived CBD products.
- The World Anti-Doping Agency does not prohibit CBD products in sports.
- CBD is non-psychoactive so it won't give you the typical "high" associated with cannabis use.
- CBD has anti-inflammatory properties.
Types of CBD and Most Common Uses
What are some of the most common ways athletes take CBD? The most common methods of taking CBD include:
- Soft gels
- Tinctures
- Topicals
- Vape oils
- Infused food and beverages
- Isolate
The reason for using CBD typically dictates what might be the most effective type of product for your unique circumstances. Some people find combining types to be most effective, while others find relief with just one method of using CBD.
For athletes, the most common methods of taking CBD include using tinctures, topicals, and soft gels or CBD capsules. Regardless of the type of CBD product, the dosage makes all the difference in its effects.
CBD Topicals for Athletes
Athletes typically use CBD topicals for issues such as:
- Muscle cramps, tension, and spasms
- Pain and soreness
- Joint discomfort
- General skincare & skin problems
- Sleep & recovery
CBD topicals include products formulated for multiple purposes, such as lotions, crèmes, gels, roll-ons, and other transdermal applications.
Risks of Using CBD Regularly
The key to optimizing CBD’s benefits for an athlete is consistently using the most appropriate dosage at the most effective times. That also means monitoring CBD’s effects on your body over time.
Initially, you’ll most likely take a week or two to fine-tune your most appropriate dosage. Over time, you may build a tolerance to ingestible CBD products (like tinctures or capsules), so you may need to adjust the dosage again later.
Although further research on the long-term benefits of CBD is greatly warranted, current evidence indicates it to have a very high safety profile and no adverse side effects of CBD. There is no evidence that CBD has addictive or dependence-forming properties, either.
Most people tolerate CBD tinctures and edibles well, but some may experience low blood pressure, lightheadedness or dizziness, fatigue or tiredness, and a change in mood. CBD can also alter how the body metabolizes certain types of prescription drugs in the body.
Always consult a medical professional to diagnose or treat any health condition first. This content is purely informational, and our products are not intended to prevent, mitigate, advise, diagnose, treat, or cure any medical or health condition. Always seek professional medical attention for severe health problems.
In a world full of CBD products, millie stands alone. But don’t take our word for it — try our products for yourself and experience the difference.
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The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated the statements made regarding these products. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
References
- Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2019). Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants, 9(1), 21. DOI:10.3390/antiox9010021
- Fasinu, P. S., Phillips, S., ElSohly, M. A., & Walker, L. A. (2016). Current Status and Prospects for Cannabidiol Preparations as New Therapeutic Agents. Pharmacotherapy: The Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy, 36(7), 781–796. DOI:10.1002/phar.1780
Horwath, H. (2021, November 29). Athletes: 6 Things to Know About Cannabidiol | USADA. U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).
