If you’re a competitive runner, you know that few things are as physically and mentally demanding. To actually be competitive, one needs to be in excellent physical shape, free of physical pain, mentally alert and motivated. Unfortunately, life throws things at us that can interfere with our ability to compete. Between daily stress, the risk of injuries and other factors that are seemingly beyond our control, we can find that our careers as competitive runners can be inconsistent.
However, we are hearing that more competitive runners are embracing CBD. Why? Because the hemp plant is unique in terms of its chemical composition that offers some pretty fascinating properties to the human body through the endocannabinoid system.
CBD: More Multi-Faceted Than You May Think
The reason why CBD seems to have the potential to help with so many unique complaints all at once is because of the body’s endocannabinoid system, and how it processes cannabinoids like CBD and others that are present in the hemp plant. The endocannabinoid system plays a role in maintaining homeostasis throughout the body, and it does this by regulating bodily processes that we rely on for well-being, such as sleep, mood, pain levels and more. Cannabinoid receptors exist throughout the body, and when they receive cannabinoids, chemical reactions occur that help regulate these bodily processes efficiently.
CBD for Competitive Running
Let’s get into the specific properties of CBD that may be useful to a competitive runner like yourself.
Potential Energy Booster
If there’s one thing that we need in order to win the race, it’s the proper level of physical energy. Many runners make the mistake of relying on harsh stimulants that can make us feel edgy rather than invigorated. Then, there’s CBD. Studies have been conducted to demonstrate the potential that CBD has in terms of helping the endocannabinoid system regulate energy levels via hormonal secretion.
Potential Pain Aid
Are you struggling with some form of physical pain that’s interfering with your performance? Many people are finding that CBD helps pain tremendously. Reach has shown unique anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties within hemp’s compounds, and it seems that the endocannabinoid system plays a role in maintaining a healthy pain tolerance by regulating the way in which pain signals are received by the brain from the nervous system.
Potential Recovery Aid
Due to the properties discussed above, CBD may be a great product for the recovery process following an extensive workout routine. One of the keys to staying in good shape is allowing the body to recover in a way that makes us stronger and healthier. Overdoing it each day can stop us from recovering as needed, leading to potential injuries down the road.
A Clearer, More Focused Mind
Not only do we need to be in good physical shape to compete, but we need to be in good cognitive shape as well. To be as competitive as possible, we need to be focused, alert and motivated. New studies show a fascinating link between CBD and cognitive function, which implies that hemp may be able to give our mind a boost.
Better Sleep Before the Big Competition
Because of the unique calming properties of hemp, taking CBD the night before a big competition may help you sleep in a way that’s more restorative. We know that the night before a competition can be filled with anxiety, which can prevent us from getting the sleep that we need to be in our best shape the next day.
Using CBD as a Competitive Runner: What to Know
Now, let’s discuss the keys to using CBD for this purpose.
Tip #1: Time Your Intake Properly
It’s important to time your CBD intake so that it peaks in the body when you need it the most, whether it be right before a race or before going to bed. Take into account your delivery method, and time your dose accordingly.
Tip #2: Daily Use May Be Ideal
We recommend taking CBD daily rather than as needed, because the endocannabinoid system seems to perform better when it’s receiving a constant intake of cannabinoids.
Tip #3: Quality Comes First
It’s absolutely imperative that you opt for a high-quality brand, because low-quality CBD won’t be effective enough to give you the desired results. Look for third-party lab reports on a company’s website as these prove quality, purity and legitimacy.
Tip #4: Milligram Strength Makes a Big Difference
The higher the milligram strength of a CBD product, the more potent it is. Higher body weights require higher milligram strengths, as do people who have especially severe ailments.
Tip #5: Be Open to Experimentation
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to coming up with an effective CBD routine, as everyone’s body is different, and therefore has different needs. Experiment with different products, dosage levels and dosing schedules before deciding what works best for you and helps you reach your goals.
CBD: A Possible New Approach to Competitive Running
As a competitive runner, you know how crucial it is that you’re always in top shape before a competition. Many runners are using CBD as a way to give themselves an extra boost where it’s needed the most. If you want to get in on the hemp action, check out the variety of exceptionally formulated CBD products at CBD LUXE.