How CBD Could Affect Your Fitness

Whether it’s a pre-workout supplement, or protein powder, we’re always on the lookout for products to help improve our workout regimes. CBD has only been legal in the UK since 2018, so when it comes to CBD-infused supplements, there is understandably still some grey area. 

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its many potential health benefits. But how can CBD affect your fitness? Well, there is growing evidence to suggest that it may have a positive impact on physical performance.

Muscle and joint support

One of the ways in which CBD may affect fitness is by reducing inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or stress, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to a range of health problems, including joint pain, muscle soreness, and fatigue. Studies have shown that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce these symptoms and improve recovery time after exercise.

In 2020, UFC star Conor McGregor teamed up with TIDL Sport to create a CBD-infused recovery spray. It's now become a very popular product which is widely used by MMA combatants as well as athletes in other fields.

CBD can improve blood flow and subsequent oxygen supply, as well as removal of waste, this means more endurance for intense workouts. It may seem a small step, but incorporating CBD into a workout regime could prove vital in regards to seeing results. If like many gym goers you’re hoping to hit your personal best, consider the benefits of recovery when using CBD.

CBD may also have a positive impact on sleep, which is essential for both physical and mental health. Getting enough sleep is crucial for muscle recovery and growth, and it can also improve energy levels and cognitive function. Research suggests that CBD may help to improve sleep quality by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.

Every personal trainer will tell you the importance of a good nutritional diet and a thorough training schedule. However, they tend to place less emphasis on sleep, and how important a good night's rest is for the body. Of course, everybody is different, but the average person burns around 50 calories per hour of sleep. With that in mind, it’s worth noting that CBD could be the key to a better sleeping pattern.

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is affecting an estimated 1.5 million adults in the UK, however up to 85% are undiagnosed and untreated. If you suffer from OSA, there is a chance that it could be having a negative effect on your training and productivity.

One way in which CBD may have the potential to help is by reducing inflammation in the airways, which can improve breathing during sleep. In addition to this, different types of CBD can provide a relaxing effect which can also promote better sleep overall.

Clearer headspace

Another way in which CBD may affect fitness is by reducing stress levels. Stress can have a negative impact on physical performance by increasing the production of cortisol, a hormone that can lead to muscle breakdown and fatigue. CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic, or anti-anxiety, properties, which may help to reduce stress levels and improve performance.

Wanting to get in shape and improve your fitness starts in the mind. If you can’t accurately collate your thoughts, it’s likely that it will reflect once you start training. There are a plethora of CBD products available which promote calmness and focus, which can be vital in regards to developing an effective exercise regime. 

Can CBD help with your diet?

CBD may have benefits for weight management and metabolism. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, some studies suggest that CBD may help to regulate appetite, reduce food intake, and increase metabolism. This could potentially lead to improved body composition and a higher capacity for physical activity.

It is important to note that the effects of CBD on fitness and physical performance may vary from person to person. Factors such as dosage, frequency of use, and individual biology can all play a role in how CBD affects the body. As with any new supplement or lifestyle change, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before incorporating CBD into your fitness routine.

Read our four step guide on using CBD for information on how to achieve your ideal dose. This is particularly handy if you’re new to taking CBD - figuring out your ideal dose is imperative.

While research is still ongoing, early signs suggest that CBD could be the key to achieving your ideal physique. CBD's potential anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and sleep-promoting properties, as well as its potential benefits for weight management and metabolism, make it an intriguing supplement for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, or people generally looking to better themselves.