When we look at the ways athletes use cannabis, one trend sticks: “stasis.” Most athletes want pluses from what they put in their bodies. But they know that sports cost lots of pain and time. Since they can only manage themselves, top performers crave relief after long training hours. They also need ways to relax between contests. Or a means to meditate on goals for the next match. Cannabis fulfills these needs and more. While the research in this area lacks, athletes have long known the effects. In fact, so many are speaking up about their cannabis use, sports leagues are changing their tune on pot.
For example, the NFL and its players’ union agreed studying cannabis makes sense. Although for years players have managed chronic pain by self-medicating, their bosses banned it. Now, they may gain support for safe use and pain treatment. Truth beats timing, however, and the facts about CBD remain undeniable.
With that in mind, here are some ways athletes use cannabis.
1. Eliminate Pre-Game Anxiety
When the big game comes, no matter how much they prepare, top athletes pump enough adrenaline to get nervous. While those nerves spark, their focus may slip and no competitor wants that trade-off.
If cannabis enters the bloodstream, the endocannabinoid response kicks in too, relaxing the mind and body. That doesn’t mean dosing high amounts of THC before games helps everyone.
However you approach the pre-game routine, know that cannabis has helped some top athletes stifle their anxiety.
