How CBD Can Support Your Workout
Previously, we’ve discussed the benefits of weed when tackling the Worst Hangover of Your Life, but contrary to the Reefer Madness that still permeates some sections of society, this special little plant is also beneficial to those looking to improve on themselves. Weed, and specifically CBD, is now a go-to pre- and post-workout tool in the same vein as the best protein powders. If we’ve both piqued your interest and got your attention, here are 10 ways CBD can support workouts.
First Up, What Is CBD?
CBD is part of the 100-plus chemical compounds that you will find in cannabis plants. It is a close relative of THC, which is the part that gets you high, but their effects could not be more different.
Okay Cool, And Is It Legal And Will It Get Me High?
Yes, at least depending on where you live. In places such as the US, Canada, and the UK, you can find CBD oil over the counter, even if weed is technically still illegal. This is because of the manufacturing process that removes the (supposedly) harmful components and thus will not get you high.
Sweet, So What Can It Actually Do For Me?
While smoking weed with high THC levels has the potential to couch lock you for days at a time, products high in CBD will actually do the opposite. Because there are no psychoactive substances found within CBD products, they are fantastic for those looking for an optimal and successful workout.
1. CBD Is An Anti-Inflammatory
Out of everyone, athletes know quite a bit about inflammation, and reducing this and speed up recovery periods is always something they like to find. There are many health benefits of CBD, even more than using fish oil while also speeding up the recovery process to get you back out there sooner.
2. CBD is A Pain Reliever
There’s a reason CBD and cannabis products are being campaigned for use in medical treatment for both minor and chronic pain. Those suffering from often debilitating injuries and issues have shown massive improvements when using CBD, and they are safer than using prescription opioids and other pharmaceuticals that are expensive and can lead down a dark road of addiction.
3. CBD Can Reduce Stress
The chilled stoner stereotype is an archetype for a reason, but if you ever have pre-performance nervousness, CBD is a fantastic way to relieve stress and anxiety to put you in the correct frame of mind to do exactly what you need to.
4. CBD Can Help You Sleep Better
Everyone already knows how good weed can be for putting you to sleep, but CBD works even better. Those who have partaken in a cheeky puff now and again likely remember the lack of dreams and grogginess upon waking up the next day following a mammoth smoke session. However, CBD instead provides a more deep and restful sleep, which is excellent for muscle recovery.
5. CBD Can Boost Your Energy Levels
While CBD is useful for experiencing better sleep, it can also increase your energy levels that will put you a step ahead of the competition. CBD reacts with endocannabinoids within our bodies that understand what your body needs to function. It may take some time to get the dosage right, and we don’t want you bouncing off the walls at midnight, but once perfected, you’ll discover you feel more alert when you need to be, but still capable of settling down when it’s time for bed.
6. CBD Can Reduce Feelings Of Nausea
While too much weed is likely to tip you over the edge of reason, a sensible amount of CBD is perfect for easing the nauseating feeling athletes get both during and after exercising. The anti-emetic effects are ideal for working alongside serotonin receptors to eliminate feelings of nausea to keep you going.
7. CBD Can Ease Your Gut
If you’re an endurance athlete who has frequently struggled with an unsettled and unpredictable gut but is too stubborn to switch sports, CBD is great for easing stomach issues that are more inconvenient than a little nausea. The endocannabinoid system within us works alongside the CBD to settle everything and give you a comfortable ride.
8. CBD Can Increase Your Appetite
Yeah, the munchies is still prevalent with CBD, but instead of gorging on snacks throughout the night athletes such as powerlifters and MMA fighters, with intense eating demands use CBD as a safe way to consume the number of calories they need to increase muscle growth and similar needs.
9. CBD Can Minimize Muscle Spasms
With the antispasmodic components of cannabis, anyone who suffers from muscle spasms before, during, and following a workout will find a lot to appreciate. Not only will these muscle spasms reduce, but you’ll also experience less risk of straining, dehydration, and nerve damage.
10. CBD Can Protect Your Brain
Like any decent supplement (if you can call CBD such a thing), CBD has shown to protect the brain, among other vital organs, which can contribute to better recovery from concussions suffered during sport. While these effects are not yet proven to work in the long-term, there is research being conducted over how effective CBD is in offering short-term neuroprotection.
Where’s The Proof?
Much of the reasoning behind the benefits of CBD and its support for workouts comes from anecdotal evidence, so it’s easy to see why some people may be skeptical. However, there are some studies that prove its effects on the likes of inflammation, relieving pain, and reduces aches to enhance mobility.
Whether taken through a pill or applied directly to the skin in an oil, CBD has shown to help mitigate injuries and issues athletes face every day. We’re not saying it will work for everybody, and it’s certainly not a cure-all wonder supplement. Instead, combine it with sensible recovery regimens to get the best benefits.
Why Not See-BD For Yourself?
We understand that certain substances are not for everybody, but if you have suffered from injuries and similar exercise-related issues in the past and are still struggling to find the right cure to ease any pains, aches, strains, or even deal with mental wellbeing, it might be worth researching how CBD can aid you in your workouts and increase performance both physically and mentally.
