Key takeaways
- Full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD products are great for martial artists.
- Hemp-derived CBD is legal in martial arts.
- CBD is safer than Performance enhancement drugs used by some athletes.
- Hemp derived CBD supports pain relief, reduce swelling and anxiousness.
CBD products have emerged as valuable companions in martial arts. These products offer a range of benefits including pain relief, anti-inflammation and neuroprotective effects. Information from research shows that CBD demonstrates positive impacts on cardiovascular health and blood circulation. Its protective influence extends to the nervous and immune systems, providing anti-inflammatory support for injuries. In this article, we would discuss the roles of CBD in martial arts and how MMA fighters can benefit from it.
What are the benefits of CBD in Martial arts?
- Pain Management: CBD is known for its potential analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Martial artists often experience muscle soreness and injuries due to rigorous training. CBD may help alleviate pain and discomfort.
- Inflammation Reduction: Intensive training sessions can lead to inflammation. CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that may contribute to faster recovery and reduced swelling, supporting martial artists in maintaining peak performance.
- Recovery and Relaxation: CBD may promote better sleep and relaxation. Quality sleep is crucial for recovery, and martial artists may benefit from improved sleep patterns, aiding in overall performance.
- Anxiousness and Stress Relief: The stress associated with martial arts training and competition can impact mental well-being. CBD has potential anxiolytic effects, helping individuals manage stress and anxiousness.
- Neuroprotective Properties: Some research suggests that CBD has neuroprotective properties. Protecting the nervous system is particularly relevant in martial arts, where head injuries can occur.
- Focus and Concentration: CBD's interaction with the endocannabinoid system may influence cognitive functions. While more research is needed, some users report improved focus and concentration with CBD.
What is the best form of CBD for Martial artists?
CBD’s effectiveness varies among individuals, with the choice between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD playing a pivotal role. Both formulations encompass additional cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids naturally found in the cannabis plant. These compounds collectively engage with the body's endocannabinoid system, potentially enhancing the product's efficacy. The unique synergy of these components distinguishes full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD, offering users diverse options to align with their specific needs and preferences. As individuals seek personalized approaches to wellness, understanding the nuanced benefits of each CBD type becomes crucial for optimizing its therapeutic potential.
Is CBD legal in Martial arts?
Starting in 2017, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) removed CBD from its list of prohibited substances. This means that CBD, derived from hemp, is now considered legal and can be used without restriction in martial arts, as well as other sports. The acceptance of CBD by WADA reflects the evolving understanding of its properties and distinguishes it from substances with psychoactive effects. With various strains of hemp cultivated legally worldwide, athletes can harness the potential benefits of CBD for recovery and well-being without concerns about violating anti-doping regulations in martial arts and other athletic pursuits.
How choose the best CBD products for Martial Arts
Choosing the best CBD for martial arts involves considering factors that align with your specific needs and preferences. Here's a guide:
- CBD Type: settle for full-spectrum and/or broad-spectrum products. While full-spectrum products Contains additional cannabinoids and compounds for an enhanced "entourage effect” including THC, broad-Spectrum products is suitable for those avoiding THC.
- CBD Source: Opt for CBD derived from organic hemp to minimize exposure to pesticides and chemicals.
- Third-Party Testing: Look for products tested by third-party laboratories to ensure quality, potency, and safety.
- CBD Concentration: Choose a concentration suitable for your intended use, considering factors like body weight and desired effects.
- Delivery Method: Explore various forms (oils, capsules, and gummies) and choose based on personal preference and convenience.
- THC Content: Ensure THC levels comply with legal limits and align with personal comfort regarding THC exposure.
- Brand Reputation: Research and choose reputable brands known for transparency, quality, and adherence to regulations.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Read user reviews and seek recommendations from fellow martial artists or wellness experts.
- Purpose: identify specific goals (recovery, stress relief, sleep) and choose CBD products tailored to those needs.
CBD vs. performance enhancement drugs in sports
CBD is not a performance-enhancing drug and is generally legal in many sports, without producing psychoactive effects. It is often considered a wellness supplement, known for potential anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and calming effects. Athletes may use CBD for recovery, pain management, and stress reduction. Notably, CBD has been removed from the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) list of prohibited substances.
On the other hand, performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) are substances designed to enhance physical performance, often by increasing strength, endurance, or recovery. However, their use is associated with serious health risks, including cardiovascular issues, hormonal imbalances, and psychological effects. PEDs are typically prohibited in sports due to their potential to provide unfair advantages and pose health risks, resulting in severe penalties, including bans from competition.
Frequently asked questions
Is CBD good for boxers?
CBD is gaining popularity among boxers for pain relief and faster recovery. The effectiveness of CBD oils in alleviating pain and aiding recovery has made them a prevalent choice in the boxing community.
Does CBD prevent muscle growth?
No, unlike other anti-inflammatory medications, CBD does not inhibit muscle growth. Its anti-inflammatory role is very beneficial for muscle growth.
Does CBD increase strength?
Research shows that high doses of CBD between 60-120 mg were discovered to increase muscle strength, coordination, and reductions in tissue degeneration. However, lower doses (between 20–40 mg) did not show functional benefits. It's important to note that individual responses to CBD can vary, and further research is needed to understand its potential impact on strength in various contexts.
Want to Learn More?
- Why CBDa is Rare?
- How CBD Can Benefit Athletes
- How Organic Hemp Oil Benefits Skin
- What is Hemp?
- How is Hemp Oil Extracted?
Sources
McCartney, D., Benson, M. J., Desbrow, B., Irwin, C., Suraev, A., & McGregor, I. S. (2020). Cannabidiol and Sports Performance: A Narrative Review of Relevant Evidence and Recommendations for Future Research. Sports Medicine - Open, 6. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40798-020-00251-0
Flores, V. A., Kisiolek, J. N., Ramani, A., Townsend, R., Rodriguez, E., Butler, B., & Stewart, L. K. (2022). Effects of Oral Cannabidiol on Health and Fitness in Healthy Adults: An 8-Week Randomized Trial. Nutrients, 15(12), 2664. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15122664
McCartney, D., Benson, M. J., Desbrow, B., Irwin, C., Suraev, A., & McGregor, I. S. (2020). Cannabidiol and Sports Performance: A Narrative Review of Relevant Evidence and Recommendations for Future Research. Sports Medicine - Open, 6. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40798-020-00251-0
(2023). Cannabidiol in sports: Insights on how CBD could improve performance and recovery. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 14, 1210202. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2023.1210202
Pinzone, A.G., Erb, E.K., Humm, S.M. et al. Cannabis use for exercise recovery in trained individuals: a survey study. J Cannabis Res 5, 32 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-023-00198-5
