Whether you’re lifting weights, running trails or just trying to stay consistent with your workouts, recovery is half the battle. That’s where CBD is getting a lot of attention. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found in the hemp plant, and since 2018 it’s been officially cleared by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
So why are so many people in the fitness world curious about hemp oil? And what can it do for your training and recovery?
CBD may help reduce inflammation and swelling
After a tough workout, tiny micro-injuries can develop in your muscles, tendons and joints. These are completely normal and part of the recovery process, but they can also lead to soreness and swelling.
Research suggests that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Many athletes say that CBD products such as CBD oils or CBD patches help ease swelling and support faster recovery (1).
A quick note: If inflammation or pain sticks around, it’s always best to check in with a doctor.
CBD may help ease sports injuries and nerve pain
Muscle strains, overuse injuries or irritated nerves are all part of an active training routine. In these moments, CBD can offer a natural way to take the edge off discomfort, as it interacts with receptors in the body that play a role in how we process pain.
Early research also suggests that CBD may have neuroprotective effects, meaning it could help protect nerve cells or support their recovery (2). Many athletes use CBD oil internally and combine it with CBD creams or gels for targeted, on-the-spot relief.
CBD and recovery: Support after bone or muscle injuries
A study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research suggests that CBD may play a role in supporting the healing of bone fractures (3). Researchers believe it could help strengthen bone density and speed up recovery by influencing specific receptors involved in tissue repair.
CBD may also be helpful for easing muscle tension or minor training-related injuries. By supporting the body’s natural recovery processes, it can help shorten downtime so athletes can get back to training sooner.
CBD may improve sleep quality
Recovery does not just happen after training but mainly while you sleep. During the night, the body repairs muscle tissue, produces growth hormones and resets for the next session.
CBD may help improve sleep quality thanks to its calming and stress-reducing effects. Research suggests it can promote deeper sleep and reduce night-time restlessness (4). Better sleep means better recovery, which in turn supports muscle growth and overall performance – two key pillars for anyone who trains regularly.
CBD may support focus and mental strength
In sport, it’s not just physical recovery that matters. Your mental state often plays an equally important role in how well you train or perform. Many athletes say that CBD helps them stay calm and focused, especially when they’re dealing with competition nerves or pressure.
By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, CBD may help regulate stress and support mental recovery (5). For many, that makes it a helpful companion for both body and mind.
CBD in Sport – natural support for body and mind
Whether you’re looking to boost recovery, reduce stress or support performance, CBD is becoming increasingly popular in the world of sport. It may help relax tired muscles, improve sleep and shorten recovery time, all without producing any psychoactive effects.
What matters most is choosing high-quality, THC-free CBD products from trusted manufacturers. That way, you can make the most of CBD in your training routine in a safe and effective way, fully in line with a healthy lifestyle.
Frequently asked questions
Does CBD help with recovery after exercise?
Yes. Many studies and real-world experiences suggest that CBD may support recovery and help ease muscle soreness. It has relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties and may help the body bounce back more comfortably after a tough session.
Is CBD good for athletes?
CBD can be a helpful addition for athletes who want to support recovery, improve sleep and maintain mental balance. It’s legal, non-psychoactive and widely seen as a natural way to support overall wellbeing.
Does CBD relax muscles?
Yes. CBD may help relax muscles by supporting the regulation of nerve and muscle function and calming the central nervous system. This can help ease tension or cramps after intense exercise.
References
- Rojas-Valverde, D. (2021). Potential Role of Cannabidiol on Sports Recovery. Frontiers in Physiology. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2021.722550
- Philpott, H. T., et al. (2017). Attenuation of early phase inflammation by cannabidiol prevents pain and nerve damage in rat osteoarthritis. Pain, 158(12), 2442-2451. https://doi.org/10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001023
- Gabet, Y., et al. (2015). Cannabidiol (CBD) treatment promotes bone healing and increases the mechanical properties of bone in a rat model. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, 30(2), 300-310. https://doi.org/10.1002/jbmr.2399
- Babson, K. A., et al. (2017). Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep: a Review of the Literature. Current Psychiatry Reports, 19(4), 23. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-017-0775-9
- Blessing, E. M., et al. (2015). Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 825-836. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-015-0387-1
