As the world of sports continues to evolve, athletes constantly seek new ways to gain a competitive edge. From advanced training methods to cutting-edge nutrition, athletes are willing to try anything to improve their performance. One substance that has gained popularity in recent years is CBD, or cannabidiol, and we’ll explore why it’s becoming increasingly popular among college athletes in the Mountain West region.
What is CBD?
CBD is a potent yet natural compound found in cannabis, particularly hemp plants. It is known for its calming and healing properties. Unlike THC, which is found in marijuana (also from the cannabis family), CBD does not make you feel “high.” This makes it an attractive option for people who want to experience the benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects.
In sports, CBD has become popular because it can help with things like pain relief, stress, and recovery from intense workouts. Plus, CBD offers a safer option compared to traditional medications, which can have unwanted adverse effects like drowsiness or addiction risks, aligning with the growing interest in natural health solutions.
Just make sure that when improving athletic performance with CBD, you only purchase from reputable sources that have been in the business for a good while. Dutch Natural Healing is an excellent option, especially if you’d like to stick with organic CBD only. Their offerings have been third-party lab-tested to guarantee purity and potency, so sub-standard products won’t put your athletic career at risk.
Benefits of CBD for College Athletes
College athletes often face long hours of training and intense physical activity, which can take a toll on their bodies. CBD is believed to help with several common issues that athletes face:
Pain relief and muscle recovery
CBD has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, meaning it can help reduce soreness after tough practices or games. By easing inflammation, athletes may recover faster and get back to their training sooner.
Reducing stress and anxiety
With the pressure of competing at a high level, many athletes experience stress or anxiety before big games. CBD is known for its calming effects, which may help athletes relax and perform at their best when it matters most.
Improving sleep quality
Sleep is essential for recovery, but stress or muscle pain can sometimes keep athletes awake at night. CBD may help improve sleep by calming the mind and relaxing the body, ensuring athletes wake up feeling refreshed and ready to go.
CBD Rules and Regulations in College Sports
Recent changes removed cannabinoids from the NCAA’s banned drug list, separating them from substances like stimulants, steroids, and growth hormones. This shift allows athletes to use CBD while still complying with drug testing regulations. That said, Mountain West athletes must navigate strict drug testing rules carefully, as schools have their own testing policies during the regular season, while the NCAA enforces its standards in the postseason.
How Athletes Use CBD
Athletes have various options for taking CBD, depending on their needs. Some prefer CBD oils, which are taken by placing a few drops under the tongue for rapid absorption into the bloodstream. For those dealing with sore muscles or joint pain, CBD-infused creams and balms can be applied directly to the skin for targeted relief. Others opt for capsules or gummies, which provide an easy way to control dosage and use on the go. Athletes may incorporate CBD before a workout to stay focused and calm or after a game to ease pain and aid muscle recovery.
CBD: An Effective Tool for College Athletes
CBD is becoming more popular among Mountain West college athletes because it offers natural benefits without the risks that come with many traditional medications. From pain relief to better sleep, CBD is helping dedicated athletes stay at the top of their game. As long as athletes follow the rules and choose the right products, CBD could continue to be a crucial part of sports recovery in the Mountain West.
Whether it’s recovering from a tough workout or calming their minds before a big game, college athletes are finding that CBD can be an effective tool in their sports routine. As this trend grows, we’ll likely see even more athletes embracing CBD to help them succeed on and off the field.