Athletes push their bodies to the limit—so recovery matters. Since CBD was removed from the World Anti-Doping Agency’s prohibited list, more competitors use it to support demanding training schedules. Some even endorse CBD publicly or launch their own brands.
Is CBD good for athletes?
CBD (cannabidiol) interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS)—involved in sleep, inflammation response, appetite and more. While CBD isn’t a cure or treatment for specific conditions, many athletes use it like a supplement to support general wellbeing (e.g., before bed or in a recovery smoothie).
Read more: Benefits of CBD
Is CBD for athletes legal?
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) removed CBD from its prohibited list (announcement in 2017; effective from the 2018 Code). THC remains prohibited in-competition and is a controlled substance in many countries, including the UK.
- UK product compliance: Legal CBD products must come from approved hemp and contain no more than 1 mg THC per container (check the product’s Certificate of Analysis, COA).
- Drug testing: CBD itself isn’t banned, but THC (and its metabolites) can trigger a positive test. Choose products confirming compliant/zero THC.
Read more: CBD vs CBN: What Are The Differences? • CBD and drug tests
Bottom line: CBD is permitted for athletes; THC is not. Always check your governing body’s rules and your product’s COA.
Benefits of CBD oil for athletes
Supports digestive health
The ECS influences appetite and GI regulation. Some athletes use CBD to support gastrointestinal comfort and healthy appetite—especially during heavy training blocks.
Aids recovery
CBD’s interaction with the ECS has drawn interest for post-exercise recovery and managing normal inflammation response. Early research is promising, but more studies are needed to define optimal doses and timing.
Tip: Pair soft-tissue work (massage, mobility) with a CBD balm to support local recovery routines.
Helps with sleep quality
Quality sleep underpins repair and adaptation. Many athletes use CBD for a sense of relaxation before bed, aiming to support sleep length and continuity.
General balance
CBD is often used to support homeostasis via the ECS—another tool alongside nutrition, hydration, programming, and stress management.
Quick recap: potential upsides
- Digestive support: helps maintain appetite and GI comfort
- Sleep: supports wind-down and rest quality
- System balance: complements core bodily processes
- Recovery: may support normal post-exercise inflammation response
Risks & side effects of CBD for athletes
CBD is generally well tolerated, but possible effects include:
- Dry mouth (reduced saliva)
- Changes in appetite
- Fatigue/drowsiness
- Digestive upset (e.g., loose stools)
If side effects occur, reduce dose or pause use. Consult a healthcare professional if you take medications or have health conditions.
How to choose the best CBD oil for athletes
Quality first—to control THC risk and confirm potency.
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Pick the right spectrum:
- Full-spectrum – CBD + other cannabinoids/terpenes + legally trace THC
- Broad-spectrum – CBD + other cannabinoids/terpenes, no THC
- Isolate – CBD only
For anti-doping peace of mind: choose broad-spectrum or isolate.
- Demand a COA: Independent lab tests per batch confirming cannabinoids (including THC) and purity.
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Choose your format:
- Oil drops (sublingual): higher bioavailability; quicker onset
- Capsules: easy, consistent dosing; lower bioavailability
- Topicals (balms): targeted application; act locally without meaningful bloodstream absorption
Complete this one-minute quiz and find the right products for you.
17 famous athletes who use CBD
- George Kruis — Rugby union international; advocates CBD post-injury.
- James Haskell — England rugby international & MMA trainee; uses CBD around training.
- Ben Franks — All Blacks prop; long-term CBD user for performance and recovery.
- Megan Rapinoe — USWNT legend; promotes CBD for wellbeing during training/competition.
- Rob Gronkowski — NFL star; vocal about CBD’s role in sport recovery.
- Eugene Monroe — Former NFL tackle; early advocate for CBD/cannabis in sport.
- Mike Tyson — Heavyweight champion; CBD advocate and industry entrepreneur.
- Nate Diaz — UFC fighter; openly uses CBD and discusses recovery benefits.
- Alex Montagnani — BMMA athlete; promotes CBD oil for training support.
- Kieran Kevan — UKDFBA champion; uses CBD for post-workout relaxation.
- Tomas Wolfe — UKBFF champion; endorses CBD for mental & physical balance.
- Paul Pierce — NBA champion; uses CBD for emotional wellness post-trauma.
- Charley Hoffman — PGA Tour winner; uses CBD for recovery and relaxation (also: Bubba Watson, Lucas Glover).
- Eddie Hall — World’s Strongest Man 2017; public CBD advocate.
- Albee Layer — Pro surfer; adopted CBD during hip-surgery recovery.
- Ross Rebagliati — Olympic snowboard gold medallist; CBD proponent and entrepreneur.
- Brooke Ence — Elite CrossFit athlete; uses CBD to support training (also: Noah Ohlsen, Alex Anderson).
FAQ
Will CBD make me fail a drug test?
CBD itself isn’t banned, but THC is. Use broad-spectrum or isolate products and check the COA to minimise risk of THC exposure.
What dose should athletes start with?
Start low and go slow: many begin around 10–20 mg/day and titrate based on effect. The UK FSA advises not exceeding 70 mg/day for healthy adults unless a doctor agrees to more.
When should I take CBD—pre or post training?
Depends on your goal. Many take 30–60 minutes before bed to support sleep, or post-session with a recovery meal/shake. Topicals can be used anytime on sore areas.
Is full-spectrum CBD off-limits for tested athletes?
Full-spectrum contains trace THC within legal limits, which could still pose testing risk. For tested athletes, broad-spectrum or isolate is typically safer.
Can I travel internationally with CBD?
Laws vary. Some countries restrict CBD or set different THC rules. Check destination regulations and carry product COAs.
Are there interactions with supplements or meds?
Potentially. CBD can affect how some drugs are metabolised. If you take prescription meds, speak with your clinician first.
Final thoughts on CBD for athletes
From recovery and sleep to general balance, CBD has earned a place in many athletes’ routines. WADA permits CBD, but THC is still banned—so always check your federation’s rules and your product’s COA. If CBD fits your approach, prioritise quality, dose thoughtfully, and combine it with the fundamentals: training, nutrition, sleep, and smart recovery.
