The Athlete’s Guide to Cannabis: How to Recover Smarter with THC, CBD, and CBN

In the United States, cannabis users have traditionally gotten a bad rap. At best, they’ve been slotted into the classic Cheech and Chong “stoner” archetype, and at worst they’ve been labeled as criminals. Either way, as a group they have long been considered outside mainstream society. This perception, however, has been rapidly shifting as cannabis legalization continues to gain traction across the country.

Why Athletes Are Turning to Cannabis for Recovery

Today, cannabis users are simply neighbors, coworkers, and friends, many of whom are embracing the plant as a wellness tool that provides benefits such as stress relief, pain management, and better sleep. And it’s because of these benefits that cannabis is gaining popularity among another group: Athletes.

While we may be a ways off from seeing commercials with star quarterbacks endorsing THC-infused sports drinks, athletes are increasingly turning to the plant to complement other proven methods - ice baths and heat packs, staying hydrated, consuming protein and anti-inflammatory foods, practicing yoga, and more - as part of their sports recovery routines.

The Role of Cannabis in Muscle Recovery and Performance

Cannabis is emerging as a valuable aid for muscle recovery due to its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a critical role in regulating pain, inflammation, and immune response - all essential factors in post-workout recovery. Cannabis compounds like cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can assist in reducing muscle soreness and inflammation commonly experienced after intense physical activity.

CBD, THC, and CBN: Cannabinoids That Aid in Healing

CBD in particular is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce muscle swelling and promote faster healing. And both CBD and THC offer pain-relieving properties, making them effective for managing muscle discomfort. In addition, cannabis promotes muscle relaxation, which can help prevent spasms and ease tension following strenuous workouts.

Another cannabinoid emerging as beneficial for athletic recovery is cannabinol (CBN). In addition to reducing inflammation and promoting emotional well-being with its stress-relieving properties, CBN is known for its sedative qualities. As part of a nighttime routine, it’s an effective tool for improving sleep quality, which also plays a vital role in athletic recovery. With enhanced sleep quality, an athlete’s body is better able to repair tissue damage from physical exertion, further accelerating recovery.

Cannabis for Performance: Focus, Flow, and Mindfulness

In addition to muscle recovery, many athletes incorporate cannabis into their workout routines to enhance performance. Its use before or during physical activities is popular for its perceived ability to improve focus, which helps athletes such as endurance runners achieve a state of “flow,” where they’re fully immersed and performing at their best. Cannabis also strengthens the mind-body connection, making it particularly valuable for mindfulness-based activities like yoga or Pilates.

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