Many athletes push themselves in training sessions to help them reach their peak performance. However, all too often, they forget to give their bodies time to rest and recover.
Are you the same?
Underestimating the importance of rest and recovery is not a smart move. Aside from making workouts less effective and enjoyable, it also increases your chances of incurring an injury, which in turn affects your ability to perform.
Incorporating rest days into your busy training schedule gives your body the time it needs to repair and strengthen muscles, joints and tendons – allowing you to play better and for longer. But on top of this, many sportsmen and women are using CBD products to aid their recovery today.
Below, we cover everything you need to know about CBD and how it can help athletes at every level.
What is CBD?
CBD (short for cannabidiol) is a natural substance that’s derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. It’s the second most prevalent after THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the active ingredient in marijuana that’s responsible for feelings of euphoria.
Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t have any psychoactive effects – meaning athletes won’t get high when they use it for sports recovery. In fact, it has anti-inflammatory properties that make it perfect for soothing sore muscles and joints.
How can CBD benefit sportspeople?
Although more human evidence is required to prove the efficacy of CBD for sports recovery, this natural remedy has the potential to improve athletic performance by reducing pain and inflammation and increasing the recovery of muscle fibres.
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This is made up of receptors and transmitters that help to regulate and maintain a state of balance and stability, otherwise known as homeostasis.
CB1 receptors are in the brain and affect mood, memory and appetite, whilst CBD2 receptors are found in the immune system and help with pain regulation and inflammation.
THC usually binds to the CB1 receptors and has psychoactive effects. CBD acts more like a stimulant – encouraging the body to produce its own cannabinoids which attach to the CB2 receptors and reduce your perception of pain.
Another great thing about CBD is that it’s no longer considered a doping agent.
Pure CBD (CBD isolate) doesn’t show up on a standard drug test when you’re asked to provide a sample of blood or urine on the day of an event. That means you won’t be penalised for using this natural remedy to aid your recovery. Win-win.
How can athletes incorporate CBD into their training regime?
CBD can be taken in much the same way as protein shakes and multivitamins (i.e. mixing them with food and drink or taking them with a glass of water every morning).
Our CBD oils can be taken sublingually (under the tongue), allowing the effects to be felt quickly, or ingested by adding them to your food and drink to make them more palatable.
CBD edibles are the most discreet (and tastiest) way to consume CBD. These sweet-like candies can be taken at any time during the day and give you your daily dose of calm. This is ideal if your nerves are starting to get the better of you ahead of the big game or competition.
Alternatively, CBD skincare products, such as CBD balms and sports rubs, can be used post-workout or injury. These can be applied to the affected area directly and work their magic overnight whilst you sleep. Our formula is suitable for all skin types and is infused with a hint of methanol to leave your skin feeling super refreshed and revitalised.
Want to know more about CBD and sports recovery?
Here at Peak Organics, we stock only the best CBD products in the UK at some of the most affordable prices around.
Whether you have a question about our CBD sports rub or you need help choosing the most suitable product for your sporting needs, our friendly team will be more than happy to assist.
You’re welcome to call us on 0333 043 9975 to speak to us over the phone or, if you prefer, you can come and visit us at one of our stores in the North West.