Use of cannabidiol by athletes: Why is it so popular?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, has long suffered from the negative image associated with THC. However, it appears that this cannabinoid, which occurs naturally in the hemp plant, may be beneficial for a wide range of wellness activities. This non-psychoactive compound is said to have numerous benefits, which are certainly of interest in the context of sporting activities. Cannabidiol and sport are not mutually exclusive! In fact, WADA (the World Anti-Doping Agency) has removed CBD from the list of prohibited substances. Provided that the CBD product does not contain THC, it is therefore no longer likely to pose a problem in the context of official competition.

Key takeaways:

• CBD has been removed from WADA’s list of prohibited substances, encouraging its use in sport.
• It aids muscle recovery, acts as an anti-inflammatory, and improves sleep and concentration.
• THC-free ‘broad spectrum’ products are recommended for athletes.
• Topical and oral forms of CBD are preferred for optimal recovery and improved sporting performance.

>>See our CBD products for athletes in the shop<<

If you’re an athlete, you’re probably wondering what the benefits of cannabidiol are before, during or after exercise. Similarly, it is important to choose the right CBD product to ensure it is effective. So, let’s shed some light once and for all on the ins and outs of cannabidiol for sport!

WADA: cannabidiol is now permitted for consumption

As a reminder, WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) aims to harmonise international anti-doping policies. In particular, it determines which substances are prohibited in official competitions. One of their publications, which deals with substances prohibited in sporting competitions, states that ‘[a]ll natural and synthetic cannabinoids are prohibited with the exception of cannabidiol (CBD)’.

Cannabidiol is therefore no longer considered a doping substance, and with good reason! This cannabinoid is currently the subject of extensive research proving that it is not only non-psychoactive but also has numerous benefits. There is therefore no longer any reason to ban it in the context of sporting activity.

The WHO (World Health Organisation) is also in favour of the use of CBD. It advises that adults should not exceed a daily intake of 200 mg of CBD per day. So, why not give CBD a try before, after or during sport?

We explain why cannabidiol can be beneficial when practising sport!

Why are CBD and sport compatible?

It is permitted to use CBD whilst taking part in sporting activities, agreed. But why might this be beneficial?

Cannabidiol, which occurs naturally in the hemp plant, is thought to have a positive effect on muscle recovery and performance, particularly thanks to its effect on the body’s endocannabinoid system, which consists of CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors play a part in the body’s ‘homeostasis’, i.e. its stabilisation and regulation!

CBD & sports recovery

Cannabidiol is a molecule known as a ‘muscle relaxant’, meaning it relaxes muscle fibres. After exercise, CBD is therefore a very beneficial ingredient that can help to deeply relax the muscles, particularly when combined with a massage.

This muscle-relaxing effect promotes optimal muscle recovery, which is essential for long-term sporting performance.

Cannabidiol is particularly beneficial for sports that place high demands on the muscles, such as combat sports or running. Training sessions cause muscle damage that needs to be repaired to prevent injury or a halt in progress.

Thanks to its muscle-relaxing action, CBD soothes muscle pain, reduces the risk of spasms or cramps, and allows the muscle to rest properly.

Cannabidiol: anti-inflammatory action

In the same vein of benefits, CBD is also said to be an excellent natural anti-inflammatory. When one considers the many anti-inflammatory substances that elite athletes are forced to take to maintain good muscle balance, cannabidiol may offer a good natural solution for achieving optimal muscle recovery.

As CBD is not a medicine, it is obviously advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using it for any therapeutic purpose. Many scientists, such as Nicolas Donzé, indicate that cannabidiol has few or no side effects!

CBD & sleep before exercise

Scientific research is still ongoing to understand how cannabidiol affects sleep. It would appear that cannabidiol promotes sleep thanks to its soothing and anti-stress benefits.

Indirectly, this cannabinoid is thought to regulate the circadian rhythm and promote the critical phase of sleep… and we know just how essential restorative sleep is for effective post-workout recovery!

Thanks to its soothing effects, CBD promotes sleep both before and after intensive training sessions.

CBD & post-workout pain

Cannabidiol’s effect on our endocannabinoid system also helps to soothe muscle and bone pain. After a workout, CBD is therefore a good ally for reducing muscle soreness, spasms and various pains associated with an intensive workout. 

In combat sports or running, which involve repetitive impacts, cannabidiol provides significant pain relief. More than just comfort, it acts as a recovery booster.

A positive mindset in sport: cannabidiol

As an athlete, it goes without saying that you strive to push yourself further every day. Especially when it comes to competition, this high level of self-demand often leads to significant physical and psychological stress.

Often regarded as a natural anxiolytic, cannabidiol helps to calm the mind. According to some reports, CBD consumed in the context of sporting activity increases concentration and boosts self-confidence.

Before exercise, CBD is a cannabinoid considered to be motivating. It contributes to a good overall state of health!

Which CBD products are suitable for sport?

Of course, if you are an athlete, smoking cannabidiol is strongly discouraged. The harmful smoke will impair your performance and also contains trace amounts of THC.

To consume cannabidiol correctly whilst engaging in sport, opt for specialised ‘broad spectrum’ products which contain 0% THC and are completely legal.

>> Discover our CBD products for sport <<

There are two ways to take CBD for sport:

• Topical: directly onto the skin, particularly via massage. CBD oils, creams or balms are mainly used to warm up muscles before exercise or to aid muscle recovery after exercise. They can also be used to relieve cramps during exercise.
• Oral: under the tongue and/or by swallowing, for medium- and long-term effects. Available as oils or capsules, specialised CBD sports products help maintain the body’s overall balance.

CBD creams and balms for sport

These products generally combine the benefits of CBD with those of other ingredients such as arnica or peppermint. Cannabidiol balms and creams are generally used to:

• Warming up before exercise, particularly with CBD warming balms that prepare the muscles for the workout.
• Provide rapid relief in the event of injury and soothe the painful area during exercise. This is particularly the case with arnica and CBD gel or cryogenic gel, which counteract pain, reduce muscle tension and soothe the muscles.
• Soothing muscle fibres after exercise, which helps to optimise muscle recovery. These include relaxing CBD balms.

CBD massage oils for use after exercise

These oils, made from broad-spectrum cannabidiol (with no traces of THC), are often preferred to promote better muscle recovery after exercise. Combined with a massage, they help the muscles to rest effectively, leading to improved sporting performance.

>> Discover our CBD oil for sport <<

Capsules and edible oils for sport

Cannabidiol is edible (depending on the product, of course…)! When ingested, it provides long-term effects. Generally, athletes favour two types of oral administration:

• CBD capsules: made from cannabidiol oil, they are taken as dietary supplements. This method of consumption is popular because it helps to establish a routine for taking cannabidiol for sport whilst ensuring a consistent concentration of cannabinoids. Microdosing has proven its effectiveness over the long term.
• CBD oil and CBD sprays for sport: these oils contain varying levels of cannabinoids and are combined with other ingredients to promote muscle recovery, sporting performance and relaxation after exercise.

>> Discover our cannabidiol sprays <<

A brief summary of the benefits of CBD for sport

CBD before exercise:

• Relaxes muscles
• Prepares you for exercise
• Boosts self-confidence and concentration
• Enhances performance

Recommended products: CBD capsules, warming creams and balms.

CBD during sport:

• Acts directly on muscle and bone pain
• Relieves cramps and spasms

Recommended products: cryogenic gel, arnica and cannabidiol gel

After exercise:

• Promotes muscle recovery
• Promotes sleep
• Relaxes the mind

As we can see, cannabidiol offers many interesting benefits for sports enthusiasts. It is said to aid muscle recovery and enhance sporting performance.

At Sixty8, we offer products from the Alpinium range, specially designed for athletes. It’s up to you!

See also

- Cannabidiol: Leonard Leinow’s advice and dosage recommendations

- CBD and gaming: Can CBD improve your e-sports performance?

- Uses, origin, effects… What is CBD?