CBD and cycling
Cycling has increased in popularity over the years as an environmentally friendly form of transport, as a hobby and a sporting activity. The increase in cycle paths for roads and off road bike tracks has made riding more accessible and great fun.
Biking is a great form of exercise as it improves cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and flexibility. The exercise in itself is also a remedy for stress relief and all the benefits of fresh air and the outdoors.
By looking after your physical and mental health you are more likely to reach your exercise potential or fitness goals.
Research on CBD is still in the early stages, however some of what is being discovered is showing promising to help your body to prepare and recover.
The significant and important noted benefits of CBD include, relaxation, improving sleep quality, and anti-inflammation providing relief from muscle discomfort.
CBD is one of many components found naturally in the hemp plant.
It is also produced naturally in the human body. CBD helps the body’s endocannabinoid system, which controls the internal balance of natural chemicals notably associated with pain, fatigue, stress, and anxiety.
This is called homeostasis, a term used to describe the process of maintaining the internal balance in an ever-changing external environment.
There is research to suggest that by using CBD as a supplement it can support these functions to maintain balance and overall wellness.
There are many reports that CBD effectively relieves aching muscle and tired joints before and after exercise.
Its soothing anti-inflammatory virtues are highly appreciated by athletes, including cyclists.
Cyclist Teal Stetson-Lee chooses CBD instead of ibuprofen to relieve muscle discomfort from exercising.
How can CBD be used as a cyclist?
Reduces muscle soreness after biking
When you are pushing yourself during a hard ride or competition you will tear the muscle tissue which then creates inflammation. The body will naturally start to repair and build up the damaged tissue, to result stronger muscle tissue.
However when you push too far, the inflammation and pain can be too much for the body to deal with. This is when you may want to use painkillers or anti-inflammatories.
CBD is a natural anti-inflammatory that can be used after biking for relief of cramps and aching joints so to promote recovery. Unlike other pharmaceutical drug products, CBD has few side effects and there is no risk of overdose.
Accelerates the recovery of cyclists
CBD is often used after exercise for muscle recovery but it is most widely recognised for its relaxing effects. Relaxing the body’s circulatory system and overworked muscles after exercise will encourage the body to focus on repair. With this power, CBD can therefore reduce recovery time after exercise, training sessions or races.
Promotes sleep
All athletes know that sleep and rest is essential. It is really important to sleep well to be in good shape the next day and recover well. When the body is tired, performance is compromised as well as the risk of injury being greater.
Evidence is continuing to show that CBD can calm an active mind to help with sleep.
Helps to treat anxiety
CBD oil may help your physical performance and daily life, by helping you regulate anxiety and stress. Exercise is a remedy for stress itself, but if you need a more of a boost, CBD may help promote the calming of mind and body.
The nerves before competitions may be alleviated by CBD oil as it is an effective natural supplement to treat anxiety .
Choosing CBD for cycling
For tired over worked muscles we recommend CBD recovery balm. Its anti-inflammatory properties will help calm aches and discomfort after exercise. It can be applied to knees, shoulders or wherever you need relief.
In addition CBD oil is suitable as an all round wellbeing supplement to boost your body’s natural systems associated with discomfort, fatigue, stress, and anxiety.
If you are ready to try CBD balm or CBD oil or both it could be your next steps towards a more relaxed comfortable body and mind.
