CBD Oil: Before or After A Workout?

Last Updated on 7th August 2020

Across the United Kingdom, CBD is quickly becoming a staple of gym bags as people increasingly use it for treating the delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS). The biggest question that fitness fanatics currently have is; it is a good idea to take CBD before or after a workout?

The simple answer is that it will depend on the type of CBD product that’s your preferred option since each one takes a different amount of time to actually kick in.

The Onset of CBD Effects

The intention is to ensure that the CBD works at full capacity in the body once the training is complete. For instance, if you plan to train for 1 hour and you like to use capsules then it can be a good idea to take them prior to training.

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If you use a CBD vape, on the other hand, you can take it immediately after a session because the effects will immediately kick in. The following is a table to help you determine the most suitable time to take CBD.

Time To Feel Effects Of CBD

Dosage

Everybody’s endocannabinoid system is unique, which means that there isn’t a single CBD dosage that’s suitable for all or ‘one size fits all’.

Incidentally, it seems that the vast majority of people consume anywhere from 25mg to 200mg daily depending on their pain levels, levels of inflammation, etc.

The best advice is to start slow and low until you find an optimal dosage that works for you personally. You will be grateful that you did since you will enjoy so many benefits.

The Benefits of CBD to Workouts

CBD is a non-intoxicating compound from the cannabis plant that scientists have described as a pharmacological marvel because of its wide variety of benefits, which include:

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Reducing Inflammation

You are probably all too familiar with the feeling of tired and aching muscles after a workout (or DOMS as it is technically referred to). In numerous studies, CBD has been shown to be a powerful anti-inflammatory with analgesic effects to reduce the pain associated with that. CBD balms are some of the best muscle recovery options that you can buy right now.

Extending Runner’s High

An endogenous compound that’s known as anandamide is released in the brain after a workout that produces a bliss feeling. Unfortunately, an enzyme known as FAAH quickly eradicates it from the body. Fortunately, CBD has been shown to inhibit FAAH thus prolonging the feel-good runner’s high.

Lowering the Cortisol Levels

The body perceives a workout as stress to the body, which is why cortisol is usually produced. While it has its positive effects, cortisol helps reduce protein synthesis that can hinder muscle growth as well as recovery.

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Calming Anti-Anxiety Effects

The relaxing anti-anxiety effects that may promote a good night’s sleep thus promoting recovery is perhaps the thing that CBD is best-known for.

The Bottom Line

CBD is undoubtedly a safe and effective alternative to get rid of pain and inflammation following a tough workout and your chosen method of consumption will determine when you use this cannabinoid.

You can apply CBD creams directly to the area affected to target specific inflammation and pain. However, to ensure the best results and to boost your endocannabinoid system it can be a good idea to add one of the other products too.