Runners Rejoice: How CBD Can Help With Performance

Picture this: you're out for a morning jog, feeling the sun on your face and the wind in your hair, your heart pumping, it feels like you're gliding through the air with the grace of a gazelle. And then... you feel it. 

That all-too-familiar ache in your muscles tells you you've pushed yourself just a little too hard. Fortunately, there is a natural remedy that may help you enhance your performance and reduce the risk of injury: CBD. 

In this article, we will discuss the potential benefits of CBD for runners, how to use it for athletic performance, and what to look for when buying CBD products. 

Ready to unlock the potential of CBD to boost your running performance? Shop FOCL’s collection of premium CBD products today!

What Is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in the cannabis sativa plant. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids that have been identified in hemp. But unlike its well-known counterpart Tetrahydrocannabinol(THC), CBD does not produce the same psychoactive effects associated with marijuana use. Instead, CBD is renowned for a range of potential therapeutic properties.

CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a complex system of neurotransmitters, receptors, and enzymes that helps regulate many physiological functions, including mood, appetite, sleep, and immune response. The ECS plays an important role in maintaining balance, or homeostasis, within the body.

CBD can be taken in many forms, including oils, gummies, capsules, and topicals.

 

 

 

What Is CBD Used For?

It is important to note that CBD is not regulated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition. However, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests that CBD may be beneficial for a variety of health issues.

In a survey conducted in 2018, nearly 62 percent of CBD users reported they used it to treat a medical condition, with pain, anxiety, and depression topping the list.

CBD has also been linked to several potential health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health, reduced inflammation, and improved cognitive performance. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-seizure properties.
As research continues to uncover the potential benefits of CBD, its use will likely continue to increase.

 

Benefits Of CBD 

CBD has continued to gain popularity in recent years due to its potential therapeutic benefits. Here are a few benefits worth noting:

• Pain relief: CBD has been shown to potentially help reduce pain by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating pain.
• Sleep: CBD may help improve the quality of sleep and may help individuals who suffer from insomnia or other sleep disorders.
• Anxiety and depression: CBD has been found to have a calming effect on the mind and may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Epilepsy: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of CBD under the brand name Epidiolex in patients over the age of one to treat seizures caused by Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, two rare forms of epilepsy.
• Neuroprotective properties: CBD has been shown to have neuroprotective properties, meaning it can help protect the brain from damage and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Overall, CBD shows promise as a potentially useful compound for a wide range of health conditions. However, it’s vital to talk to a healthcare professional before using CBD, especially if you are taking other medications as CBD can interact negatively with these. 

If you’re ready to explore CBD for yourself, start with our Product Finder Quiz to get matched up with the perfect CBD products for your needs. 

Also check out the FOCL Relief Cream. Quickly eliminate aches and pains with 1000mg or 2000mg of Premium CBD + powerful Menthol and soothing botanicals.

 

Does CBD Benefit Runners?

In recent years, athletes and runners have begun to explore the potential benefits of CBD for improving performance. Significant studies have been done to indicate that CBD could be an important component of runners' nutrition and well-being regimens. 

Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a newbie just starting out, there's one thing that every runner can agree on: running can be tough on the body. 

Sore muscles, joint pain, and general fatigue are just a few of the common issues that runners face. With CBD, runners may be able to reach their peak performance again by taking advantage of the following reported benefits.

 

Reducing Inflammation

Inflammation is one of the most common issues that runners face, and it can be a major hindrance to performance. CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects on joints. 

This may help to alleviate pain and reduce the risk of injury and post-run stiffness, which is particularly essential for runners, who are more prone to knee pain and injury.

Studies have shown that CBD can reduce inflammation in the body by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that signal the body to produce inflammation.

 

Improving Recovery 

Recovery is an essential part of any athlete’s training regimen, and CBD may help you get back on your feet faster. How?

• CBD is said to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce muscle soreness and aid in faster recovery.
• Sleep is important for recovery and CBD may help improve sleep quality. Poor sleep quality can lead to fatigue, decreased performance, and an increased risk of injury. 
• Recovery might become hard when you’re not relaxed. CBD has been said to help relax the body and mind, allowing for a better recovery.
• By reducing stress and anxiety, CBD may help runners achieve a more restful sleep, which is essential for recovery.

Enhancing Endurance

Endurance is an important factor for runners, as it helps them to go the distance and reach their goals. CBD may be able to help with this. 

Studies have shown that CBD may reduce the amount of lactic acid produced in the body, which can help to reduce fatigue and improve endurance. 

CBD may be able to help with recovery after a long run, allowing runners to get back out on the road faster and achieve their goals more quickly.

 

Pain Relief

Pain relief is one of the most widely sought-after benefits of CBD for runners. With the high-intensity and repetitive nature of running, it is no surprise that runners often experience pain and discomfort.

CBD may serve to reduce pain and inflammation by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for regulating pain, inflammation, and other bodily functions. When CBD is taken, it binds to the endocannabinoid receptors, leading many to believe that it helps to reduce pain and inflammation. 

A great way to utilize CBD for pain is through a topical, applied directly to the problem area.

 

Stress Reduction

Stress is a normal part of life, but too much stress can be detrimental to our physical and mental health. For runners, stress can lead to burnout, fatigue, and decreased performance. 

Fortunately, CBD may be able to help reduce stress levels and help runners stay in peak physical and mental shape. CBD has been found to reduce cortisol levels, a hormone released in response to stress. Lowering cortisol levels can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

How To Use CBD For Athletic Performance

CBD is an ideal addition to any runner’s routine. But how exactly should you use CBD to maximize its benefits? Here’s what you need to know about using CBD for running performances.

Don’t Overextend Yourself: CBD is not going to turn you into a superhuman overnight, so don't expect miracles. Take it easy, and remember that CBD is just one tool in your arsenal.

Choose Your Method: There are various ways to use CBD, so choose the method that works best for you. Some athletes prefer to take CBD capsules or gummies, while others opt for CBD oil drops or tinctures. For targeted relief, you can also try CBD-infused topicals, like creams or balms. It is important to note that some products might be more effective than others for this purpose. 

Start with a Low Dose: Less is often more when it comes to CBD. Start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find the right amount for you. Remember that CBD affects everyone differently, so what works for one person may not work for another.

Time Your Doses: Timing is everything when it comes to using CBD for athletic performance. Some athletes prefer to take CBD before a workout to help with focus and energy, while others take it after a workout to help with recovery. Experiment with different timing to find what works best for you.

Listen to Your Body: If you feel like CBD is helping you perform better and recover faster, great! Keep using it. If you don't notice any difference or experience negative side effects, it might not be the right choice for you.

Dosage Of CBD For Runners

This is where things get tricky. There is no standard dose that provides the same effect in all individuals because CBD products are not strictly regulated, there may be inconsistencies in the amount of CBD in a product.  And it can be difficult to be exact based on how you ingest CBD. 

The most precise way to consume CBD is probably through capsules or by calculating how many milligrams of CBD are in a given volume of a tincture. 

However, a general rule of thumb is to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it as needed. This is because the body needs time to adjust to the effects of CBD. Also, take note that the optimal dosage will vary from person to person, depending on their body weight, metabolism, and other factors. 

CBD may interact with certain medications, so consult with a doctor before starting a CBD wellness regimen.

 

What Should You Look For When Buying CBD Products? 

CBD has become quite a popular product these days, but with so many options out there, it can be hard to know what to look for. When buying CBD products, do your research and make sure you are buying from a reputable source. Here are some noteworthy tips:

• First and foremost, you want to make sure you're getting a HIGH-QUALITY PRODUCT. This means looking for CBD that has been EXTRACTED USING A CO2 METHOD, which is the industry standard for ensuring purity and potency. Don't settle for anything less.

• Look for those that are LAB-TESTED and made from high-quality, ORGANIC INGREDIENTS. Lab testing is essential to ensure that the product is free of any contaminants and that it contains the correct amount of CBD.
• Read CUSTOMER REVIEWS and check out the COMPANY'S WEBSITE to verify that they are REPUTABLE and have a good track record. Reading customer reviews can give you an idea of how effective the product is and what kind of results people have seen with it.
• CHECK THE THC CONTENT. Unless you live in a state where marijuana is legal, you want your CBD products to contain less than 0.3% THC. This will guarantee that you don't get high or run into any legal issues.
• CONSIDER THE PRICE. You don't want to break the bank, but you also don't want to buy a cheap product that won't give you the desired effects. Remember, you get what you pay for. 

By doing your research and taking the time to find the right product, you can ensure that you are getting the most out of your CBD product and that it is safe to use.

 

Final Thoughts

CBD has shown great promise in helping runners improve their performance and recover from the physical demands of training and competition. From reducing inflammation and pain to promoting better sleep and enhancing focus, CBD may offer a range of benefits for runners looking to take their performance to the next level. 

So, what are you waiting for? Try incorporating CBD from FOCL into your next run, and see the difference it can make! Our organic, non-GMO hemp products are designed for everyone, and you may even come across products that you can incorporate into other areas of your life. 

FAQs
Is CBD legal?

The legal status of CBD varies from country to country and from state to state. In the United States, CBD is legal in all 50 states as long as it is derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC. However, check your local laws before purchasing or consuming CBD products as these laws are always subject to change.

Is CBD prohibited within sports competitions?

No. In 2018, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) removed CBD from the list of prohibited substances, regardless of whether it’s used inside or outside of competition. 

However, athletes should be aware that some CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC, which can be detected in drug tests. As such, athletes should always check with their respective sports governing bodies before using CBD. 

Does CBD really affect running performance?

While research is still ongoing, there is some evidence that CBD may have potential benefits for runners, such as reducing inflammation and pain, improving sleep, and decreasing anxiety. These benefits could potentially lead to improved recovery, increased endurance, and better overall performance.

Can you take CBD before running?

Yes, CBD can be taken before running. However, it is important to note that CBD may take some time before taking effect, so it is best to take it at least two hours before running. Additionally, side effects do include fatigue, so it may help you feel more relaxed and tired rather than energized. Carefully dose your CBD and consider this before you get ready to go on your run.

How long does it take for CBD to work on knee pain?

The effects of CBD on knee pain can vary from person to person. Generally speaking, it may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks before you start to notice the effects of CBD on knee pain. 

Additionally, the severity of your knee pain, the method of delivery, and the dosage of CBD can also affect how quickly you feel the effects. Consistency is key, and it’s important to reach out for medical help if you’re dealing with an injury CBD can’t treat on its own.

 

Sources:

1. Corroon, J., & Phillips, J. A. (2018). A cross-sectional study of cannabidiol users. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 3(1), 152–161. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2018.0006
2. Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2019). Antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants, 9(1), 21. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9010021
3. Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2019). Antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants, 9(1), 21. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9010021
4. Sahinovic, A., Irwin, C., Doohan, P. T., Kevin, R. C., Cox, A. J., Lau, N. S., Desbrow, B., Johnson, N. A., Sabag, A., Hislop, M., Haber, P. S., McGregor, I. S., & McCartney, D. (2022). Effects of cannabidiol on exercise physiology and Bioenergetics: A randomised controlled pilot trial. Sports Medicine - Open, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40798-022-00417-y
5. Henson, J., Vitetta, L., Quezada, M., & Hall, S. (2021). Enhancing endocannabinoid control of stress with cannabidiol. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 10(24), 5852. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10245852