Athletes as well as outdoor and fitness enthusiasts put a lot of stress on their bodies, and many are looking to CBD as a natural supplement. Training stimulates muscle growth which over time increases performance, but physical trauma and prolonged wear and tear can also lead to injuries and pain. Chronic use of over-the-counter pain relievers pose greater health risks than previously known, and we are in the midst of an opioid epidemic which for many began in search of pain management. For these reasons, many are looking to the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD as a pain management and workout support alternative.
Pre-Workout
Although many are starting to think of CBD as a post-workout supplement, there are pre-workout benefits as well. CBD (and for some, in combination with THC) can give a boost of energy before your workout. Products with an entourage effect (1:1 CBD:THC) might be a good place to start if you are looking for that extra boost, although the right combination and desired effect will differ person to person. CBD reduces blood pressure which can also help extend your workout without typical stress and fatigue. As well, CBD’s anxiety reducing properties can also help with managing competition related anxiety which impacts performance for many athletes (at the beginning of 2018, the World Anti-Doping Agency removed CBD from the list of prohibited substances). If you’re looking for the effects of CBD immediately before or during your workout, we recommend taking a gummy or capsule a couple of hours before you start exercising to give your body enough time to absorb the product. You can also take RELIEVE+ Healing Oil (CBD tincture) sublingually (under the tongue) half an hour to an hour prior to your workout. Many athletes including skiers, bikers, surfers, runners, and yogis also like to add RELIEVE+ oil to a smoothie or shake before a workout or heading out for the day.
Post-workout
CBD is fast becoming a common supplement for athletes post-workout because of it’s anti-inflammatory properties. Many are looking to CBD for pain management as it can be an effective way to relieve the soreness caused by exercise, as well as shorten recovery time following a workout. Although a little bit of inflammation can be good for athletes and help stimulate positive training adaptations, too much inflammation will hinder and prolong recovery. Post-workout sleep is also an important part of the physical recovery process, and many have difficulties getting deep enough restful sleep. Anecdotally, athletes who take CBD report finding it easier to fall asleep and get a more restful night’s sleep overall. To get the positive benefits of CBD post-workout, you can take a dropper-full of our RELIEVE+ Healing Oil right before your workout. You can also take a gummy or pill post-workout to help you wind down and start reducing inflammation as your muscles move into recovery mode. A OUIDE Relax pastille or gummy is always a great way to end the day and set you up for a great night of sleep.
If you're an athlete looking into CBD, please remember that if you’re competing and being tested for sports doping you should be extra cautious about regulations and be aware of CBD and THC ratios. The same rule always applies, start low and go slow to find the dose that is right for you.