If there’s something we know about at Allvane besides CBD, it’s running. We’ve completed races of all distances locally and even around the world. None of us are likely to win a race, but we are likely to cross the finish line (maybe with our own PR). With our love of running and passion for CBD, we’re excited to share the benefits of CBD for runners.
Whether you’re just taking your first steps of a couch-to-5K or training for a marathon, find out how CBD may help you reach your running goals.
What is CBD and how does it work?
Each of us have systems that allow our bodies to function. Systems like digestive, immune and respiratory, to name a few. One system not as well-known is the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This was only just discovered in the late 1980’s so there isn’t as much research available.
What we do know is that the ECS is a regulatory system whose primary function is to keep the body in balance, or homeostasis. The body is constantly in flux, with external factors that impact its ability to remain in top form. When there is an imbalance, you don’t feel well. (Think of your last cold or pulled muscle. While different experiences, both can be considered an imbalance.)
CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is one of more than 120 natural compounds we find naturally in the cannabis plant. When ingested or used topically, CBD has been found to naturally with your body to help maintain this balance, with a wide variety of mild yet noticeable benefits, such as:
- Reducing inflammation
- Reducing pain
- Improving sleep quality
- Reducing stress
- Promoting healthy digestion
Benefits of CBD for Runners
CBD is a great option to help your body and mind prepare for and to recover after a run. Let’s take a look.
Soothe Muscle Aches and Reduce Stiffness
If your hamstrings are anything like mine, you know firsthand how tough it is to get started some days. On the flip side, you may find yourself stiff or sore the day after a challenging run. (Ex: walking down the stairs after the Twin Cities Marathon). CBD topicals are a great options to help warm up tight muscle areas before a run and to reduce localized inflammation after a run. This in turn will help reduce pain and boost recovery time.
Get Better Sleep
Seep is one of the most vital parts of a training plan. This is the main time when your body is able to recover. Bad sleep is more likely to result in muscle cramps and fatigue on your next run. CBD may help you fall asleep more quickly, to stay asleep, or to be able to get back to sleep if you are disturbed. CBD Oil or Gummies are most often used to support a good night’s sleep.
Minimize Wear-and-Tear on Muscles
CBD can also be used to help you take on training with less damage to your muscles from constant use. The inflammation control is effective both through topicals and ingested or absorbed CBD products, allowing you to initiate a whole-body reduction of inflammation when you have worked hard. This can reduce muscle aches, improve your recovery health, and allow you to train sooner or harder with less risk of damage to swollen tissue.
Support Healthy Digestion
Many people find CBD to ease ongoing digestive and stomach problems. CBD can ease pain caused by inflammation in and around the digestive system, which can really slow down your running routine. If you have challenges with digestion, CBD may help to ease the stress and discomfort.
Reduce Swelling and Pain from Injuries
If you develop a sprain, twist, or other runner’s injury, CBD may help you manage the pain of the injury and reduce the damage through inflammation control. Reducing inflammation in a sprain not only lessens the pain, it can also increase your recovery time.
Reduce Stress
Experiencing stress can impact your running. If you are tense, you won’t reach your best times and are more likely to find a sprain along the route. If you are distracted, you are more likely to twist an ankle or under perform on your goals. CBD has been found to help reduce stress, aiding in calm and relaxation.
Best CBD Products for Runners
CBD is available in several different forms so that you can tailor your method of use to your specific need. Here are the most common types of CBD.
- CBD Topicals: these are great for muscle or joint pain and stiffness. Simply apply to the affected area can help soothe aches and pains, and support muscle recovery.
- CBD Oils: These are liquids that you place under the tongue with a dropper. You may also choose to put in your coffee, tea or smoothie. Take daily to help stave off inflammation and support your recovery, or as needed to provide relief.
- CBD Gummies: They’re a popular (and tasty!) way to consume CBD. Gummies are ideal for stress relief, pain relief and digestion. Because you eat them eat them, they must through your digestive system first so may take longer to feel the effects, but the effects may also last longer.
Hit the Road
Runners can find a variety of benefits from working with CBD. Allvane is here to help you on your CBD journey and to help you crush your goals. Contact us anytime with questions and to explore the right CBD products for you.
New to CBD and want to learn more?
We loved supporting 2021 Twin Cities Marathon Weekend as an official sponsor.