Contributor: Carol Kalvelage
If you are into fitness and health, you’re probably always searching for ways on how you can take your workout to another level. From choosing the best workout clothes to the correct workout forms. You’re also probably looking for some supplements or drinks to help you perform at your best during your workout. One of the products people are using now is CBD and many users have reported how it helps them with their workout struggles. If you’re one of those people who are looking for ways to make your workout sessions better, you should try adding CBD to your workout regimen too. However, you must be careful when choosing the products or brands when shopping for CBD. Some products being sold in the market contain higher levels of THC (a cannabinoid that has psychoactive properties) than what’s recommended. Choose a reputable CBD store that uses hemp for its products rather than marijuana.
What is CBD?
What is CBD though? – you might ask. CBD is a cannabinoid found naturally in the cannabis plant. It is one of the most popular cannabinoids together with THC. It is important to know the difference between the two to avoid confusion and developing misconceptions. Some people think that CBD can get you high but that is false. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can. THC is a cannabinoid that has psychoactive properties and gives a high effect on users. On the other hand, CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid so it doesn’t have the ability to get its users high. CBD also offers different benefits such as anti-inflammatory, pain relief, improve sleep, etc.
CBD can be in any form such as oil, edibles, tinctures, flower, topical, vape pens, etc. Before taking any of these, please make sure to consult a physician to get recommendations for dosing.
Why is CBD good for fitness?
Our body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS). Cannabinoids bind to the ECS receptors, namely CB1 and CB2 which are found in the nervous system, muscle tissue, and some organs. CBD binds to these receptors indirectly. This unique interaction of CBD and ECS receptors enables users to experience the therapeutic effects of CBD.
In fitness, here are some of the benefits CBD can offer
- Helps muscle recovery – According to studies, tissue repair happens during our sleep. CBD is great for inducing sleep and also reduces inflammation. This is a perfect combo for muscle recovery.
- Relieves pain and inflammation– Pain is inescapable in fitness. Whether you are doing yoga, cardio, weight lifting, you will always experience pain after your workout routine. CBD is good for alleviating pain and inflammation.
- Provides better sleep- Your sleep quality impacts your productivity. If you are not getting enough sleep, you probably won’t have enough energy to do your workout. If you are struggling to get better sleep at night, you can take CBD to benefit from its effectiveness in sleep.
- Relieves stress and anxiety – Have you ever feel nervous or anxious in the gym? Anxiety and stress could stop you from doing the things you like. You should not let it. CBD is good for relieving anxiety. It will help you relax and gain your confidence to crush your workout.
- Energy booster- One of the challenges for fitness enthusiasts is the lack of energy which limits their exercise practices or the quality of their workout. There are many factors to consider as to why some people lack energy. It could be a poor diet, lack of sleep, or some health issues. However, according to some reports, CBD helps with boosting energy. It’s how it works with the cannabinoid receptors of the endocannabinoid system of the body. CBD interacts with the cannabinoid receptors to improve balance and strengthen immunity.
- Helps in better nutrition Gain- Have you been wanting to gain weight? According to studies, CBD is a good source to help you gain a healthy weight. It is efficient in providing important nutrients which will keep you active during your exercise sessions.
CBD Products
CBD products vary in different forms. There are tinctures, cream or spray, edibles like gummies and chocolate, capsules, and oil. There’s a lot to choose from, but I suggest choosing the best product you’ll be comfortable taking.
Tinctures– have an unpleasant smell but it takes effect more quickly. It is often taken sublingually, or underneath the tongue for faster absorption and effects. You can also add some drops to your protein shake or smoothie.
It is best used after your workout. Effects usually start to kick in just after 30 minutes to an hour.
Gummies- If you like candies, gummies are best for you. It’s just a regular gummy infused with CBD. What’s fun is that it comes with different flavors to choose from. Gummies are best to take before the workout and enjoy the effects once you’re done. Gummies usually take effect after 1 or 2 hours.
Chocolate bar- Chocolate bars are also one of the most favorites. Especially the Delta-8 chocolate. These chocolate bars are just like any other chocolate bar but infused with Delta-8. Delta 8 is also one of the most popular cannabinoids and is derived from hemp. Unlike CBD, Delta 8 has mild psychoactive effects. However, its effect is not as intense as THC. Many cannabis users prefer Delta 8 for its manageable high effects which give them relaxation. Just like any other edibles, you can also take Delta 8 chocolate before working out. Eat it as it is or mix it with your shake.
Topicals- Topicals are cream, oil, etc that you can apply directly to your skin. It is best for muscle pain or body pain relief.
Capsules- capsules are just like any other pills or medicine and are taken the same way.
CBD Before workout
Most CBD users report that taking CBD before their workout helps them to focus better on the workout. It also helps with pain management. However, there is no solid evidence that supports these reports.
To incorporate CBD in your workout routine, you can take edibles like CBD gummies and CBD chocolate bar, or take a capsule or a few drops of tincture before your workout. Edibles usually take effect after around 1 to 2 hours. Tinctures usually start to take effect after 30 minutes to 1 hour.
CBD After workout
CBD is also used after a workout. Many people who are into sports or athletes use it for muscle recovery, pain relief, and to get better sleep.
When you work out, your muscles get damaged but your body repairs them and they come back stronger. During the repair process, inflammation comes to play. As it is known, CBD helps with inflammation and gives pain relief. This is why it is used after a workout. However, further research is still necessary to prove these claims.
To experience the benefits of CBD after your workout, you can take some edibles like CBD-infused gummies or CBD-infused chocolate bars before you start your exercise and the CBD benefits will take effect when you’re done.
If you prefer taking tinctures, it is best to take them after your workout.
For topical, you can just apply it or spray it to your skin when in pain.
There is not enough research or studies that will prove these benefits but we are speaking from experience and from many user reports.
Our Take away
CBD is safe and legal in most parts of the states and in many places. However, If you are planning to try and incorporate it into your workout, please make sure to buy from a trusted and reliable CBD store and always ask your physician first.
CBD may be what’s been missing in your workout routine. Get your workout to a higher level while enjoying the benefits of CBD.
