CBD oil and sport? In the minds of the general public, a song that goes hand in hand with sport and drugs, yet this cannabis-derived molecule is proving highly promising for athletes. Democratized by certain athletes, we're hearing more and more about it, and we explain why.
Why is CBD oil used by athletes?
We don't talk much about it, butCBD oil is used by sports enthusiasts for its many virtues that promote relaxation and well-being. In fact, there are product ranges on the market designed for this type of audience. So why exactly? What are the benefits of CBD for athletes?
This molecule, derived from cannabis, is widely used to promote relaxation. In fact, cannabidiol also contributes to muscle relaxation. Perfect after an intense sports session. Also prized for its anti-inflammatory action, CBD is a good alternative to traditional medicines for muscular or joint ailments. Applied as a massage, CBD not only helps to relax muscles and combat inflammation, as we have just explained, but also contributes to faster recovery.
Cannabidiol can also be taken directly as a sublingual. In this case, the product not only helps you relax, but also promotes deeper, better-quality sleep. CBD is also prized for its anti-stress properties, which can be of great benefit to athletes during competitive periods. Of course, studies on CBD are still ongoing.
Which CBD products should you choose for sports?
Whether applied topically or sublingually, CBD products for sports use are beginning to diversify. Here we take stock of the products currently favoured and recommended by sportsmen and women.
CBD oil is ideal for rapid, widespread results thanks to sublingual intake. Sportsmen and women can place the desired quantity under their tongue and enjoy the virtues of CBD within 5 to 20 minutes. Relaxing, anti-stress, muscle-relaxing, the product is known to soothe many aches and pains. Be careful, however, to opt for a THC-free oil if you're involved in competitive sports.
CBD creams and balms are ideal for topical use. In fact, this range of products is highly diversified, with CBD and arnica gel for aches and pains, or heating gel for muscle relaxation. Calming and soothing, these products are anti-inflammatory and aid muscle recovery.
CBD massage oil for sportsmen and women is a final product much appreciated by sportsmen and women after a session. The oil base not only moisturizes the skin, but also ensures maximum CBD penetration of the dermis. This type of massage is said to promote muscle recovery and relaxation.
Is CBD approved for top-level athletes?
Okay, the molecule has many benefits, but is CBD really approved for top athletes? Well, yes! Since January1, 2018, the substance has been removed from the list of products considered doping by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) following numerous reports demonstrating the recovery virtues for athletes.
In its report, the AMA states that "cannabidiol is no longer prohibited", provided that it is totally devoid of THC (the psychoactive substance in cannabis). Athletes should therefore opt for a broad-spectrum or isolate CBD oil.
Who are the well-known athletes in the CBD industry?
Unfortunately still taboo in the world of French sport, few athletes are well known in the industry, although more and more sports figures are taking an interest. To date, only a handful of French champions have admitted to consuming CBD.
These include Amin Fiercenes Ayoub (French boxer and double Abu Dabi Warriors world champion), Jean Baptise Patamia (former French professional swimmer), Eva Dourthe (best MMA fighter in her category) and Jenna Bolosse (2019 JJB World Master Champion and 2019 French Open Champion).
On an international level, tongues are wagging about CBD: AndrewTalansky, known for his Iron Man performances, has admitted to giving up ibuprofen in favor of CBD; Tanner Hall, a famous freestyle skier (7 X-games gold medals), is also a CBD enthusiast; and Cullen Jenkins, a genuine NFL star in the USA, is a CBD enthusiast for pain relief.
Conclusion on the use of CBD for athletes
Authorized for some years now by the WADA, CBD oil for athletes, and more generally hemp-derived products, are still struggling to establish themselves among the sporting community - at least officially. Yet the benefits of the substance for athletes are well recognized. Is a change in mentality imminent? Investigation to follow...
