Incorporating CBD Into Your Exercise Routine

From pre-workout supplements to post-workout recovery, CBD is rapidly gaining popularity with athletes for its numerous benefits. As the interest in this versatile compound grows, so too does the selection of products on the market.

For many, this raises concerns about which products to choose and how much to use. While reactions vary from person to person, there are some general guidelines that should be followed when incorporating CBD into an exercise and wellness routine.

The Basics

First, let’s look at what CBD is and how it works. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a type of compound, known as a cannabinoid, derived from the cannabis plant. While not as popular as its relative Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD has been used for thousands of years for various medicinal purposes.

Nowadays, advanced research is being conducted on the cannabis plant and all it has to offer, including the effects of CBD. Such effects can range greatly because the way it interacts with the human body variessignificantly.

From a physiological standpoint, ingesting CBDoil caninitiate a reaction in the endocannabinoid system. This system is a biological network made up of neurotransmitters and receptors working to maintain homeostasis throughout the body. CBD and other cannabinoids bind to these receptorsto produce positive effects on physical and cognitive processes.

What does this mean for the body? Research has shown the receptors activated by CBD can help boost functionality of other systems,as these receptorscan be found in muscle tissue, the nervous system and the brain.

How CBD Can Benefit Athletes

In what ways can athletes use CBD to their advantage? Currently, CBD is used to aid muscle recovery, boost energy and enhance performance. This could translate to improved athletic gains — if used correctly.

CBD oil supports a healthy inflammatory response,making it useful for workout recovery. Working out rigorously stresses muscles and produces tiny tears that can trigger inflammation. This inflammationis the body’s way to repair the damaged tissue and build it back stronger.

Continually repeating this process can lead to gains; however, there are times when muscles might be stressed too much, possibly causing injury and therefore reducing fitness gains. Introducing CBD oil at this pointhas shown improved recovery for some users by supplementing the healing process and addressing the associated pain.

Athletes can also benefit from CBD as it may facilitate a hyperactivity slowdown via GABA levels in the brain, generating better quality sleep. Similarly, as CBD helps support homeostasis, it works to maintain energy metabolism. This couldpotentially enablethe user to feel more energized. Both benefits could lead to an improvement in physical performance.

Lastly, while it is an indirect route, athletes may also find CBD helps soothe anxiety and stress. Individuals with anxiety disorders are at times prescribed CBD to address symptoms such as nervousness and discomfort.Gym goerswho are experiencing these symptoms — possibly revolving around performance — might find comfort through balanced usage.

Picking Products to Fit Your Needs

To say there are a lot of CBD products on the market would be an understatement. It’s important to know what you’re looking for before you start shopping. You should check for authenticity and certification, as there is some conflicting terminology, unregulated product development and misleading packaging in the industry.

Be sure to examine the label or product’s website for a certificate of analysis and a full panel test accredited by a third-party lab. This should give you a more accurate look into the product, it’s potency and if there are other chemicals in the mix.

Some common CBD forms can be easily incorporated into an exercise routine, such as:

• Edibles:An easyand usually tasty way to get a doseon-the-go.
• Oils and tinctures:Add to smoothies, pre-workout shakes or food. Alternately, you can apply under the tongue to absorb before swallowing.
• Topical creams and moisturizers:Apply directly to the skin to help soothe muscles.
• Vaporizer juice: Provides a slow, steady release through the day.
• Time-release tablets, soft-gels or capsules:Taken like traditional medicine.

Raising the Bar

Athletes need to listen to their bodies as they work to consistently improve performance. CBD, while still being researched, has shown to be advantageous for such hardworking individuals and could be the boost you need to reach the next level. For more information on how CBD can benefit exercise, please see the accompanying resource.

AUTHOR BIO: Nicklas Brandrup is a co-founder at Neurogan. Brandrup is a serial entrepreneur with a proven track record in the health and wellness space. He is passionate about climate, animal sanctuaries, and enjoys supporting his local community of aspiring entrepreneurs. Through educational content and knowledge-sharing, he hopes to teach people about the growing impact of natural remedies.