CBD for Athletes

CBD is short for cannabidiol, which is derived from the cannabis plant. CBD is the non-psychoactive component of the cannabis plant, thus, it can’t get you “high” or “stoned”. Long story short, CBD binds indirectly with our cannabinoid receptors, aka, why we don’t feel the high. CBD can be extracted from either the marijuana plant or the hemp plant. Hemp-derived CBD contains 0.00 - 0.03% THC, unlike marijuana-derived CBD may contain up to 0.3% THC or more.

It is legal for professional athletes to use CBD products, with caution. Not too long ago the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) took CBD OFF the prohibited substance list. Their website lays it out nice and easy: “All natural and synthetic cannabinoids are prohibited except for cannabidiol (CBD).” Keep in mind though, all other cannabinoids, including THC, are still prohibited in competition. Athletes are strictly liable for any substance found in their blood or urine. As such, there are still risks for athletes when it comes to CBD products.

It is still inconclusive whether or not CBD will show up on a drug test for athletes. It really depends. Pure CBD has been preliminarily shown to not show up on a drug test. However, THC, even present in minor traces within the CBD product, may show up on a drug test. Since very little research has been done on flagging CBD and drug tests, it’s better to be safe than sorry here.

Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, has often been viewed as a viable cannabis option, due to its non-psychoactive properties and its efficacy as an anti-anxiolytic. CBD may exert properties including:

• Anti-anxiety
• Reductions in pain
• Sense of focus
• Sense of calmness
• Reduced depressive symptoms
• Improved mood
• Improved quality of life

Cannabis has been described in the popular press as being safer than opioids and could be used in place of them for managing chronic pain, in the near future. CBD may help athletes in numerous ways, such as:

• Improved sense of focus
• Improved muscle recovery
• Sense of calm
• Better mood
• Pain reducing agent
• Anti-anxiety properties
• Potential therapeutic compound for traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)

Unlike THC, CBD has been considered non-toxic, well-tolerated, and generally safe. Snowboarding athletes can benefit from taking CBD prior to or post competition/practice. CBD may benefit athletic performance in ways including:

• Improved sense of focus
• Improved memory
• Improved mood
• Reduced anxiety
• Boosts of energy
• Reduced muscle soreness

A recent study found that athletes using cannabis displayed:

• Improvements in increased energy
• Improved athletic performance
• Endured less pain
• Had fewer muscle spasms
• Experienced less nausea

You can find quality CBD products for athletes on the internet, in-store, via word-of-mouth, and at medical dispensaries. First, start by asking yourself, what kind of CBD product are you open to trying? There are so many different ones to choose from: oils, salves, capsules, powders, waters, creams, etc. Secondly, is the company reputable? Do they provide certificates of analysis for each batch of their product(s)? Lastly, read the customer testimonials. Is the company actively engaged with their customers and their mission statement?

HOW DO I USE CBD FOR ATHLETES?

You can use CBD for athletes in various ways: orally, topically, edible options, as well as pill options to ingest. Are you wanting to try a topical CBD product? In general, CBD Topicals can be used similarly to how you apply deodorant - a swipe or two over the desired area. If you’re wanting a deeper effect, you can also massage the topical onto the area. Interested in trying a CBD oil? You can use CBD Oil Drops by filling the dropper with CBD, applying it under your tongue for 30 - 60 seconds. This will allow the CBD to be absorbed directly into your bloodstream, having you reap the benefits quickly. If you’re wanting more incognito methods for your CBD, you can try CBD water or CBD workout powder as great “look-alike” alternatives. Plus, you can drink as you practice, no rush to enjoy the tasty benefits. Post workout CBD options including CBD Cooling Gel and CBD Recovery Stick are sure to be a staple in your post-workout routine.