Last updated: June 2026
Athletes push their bodies to the limit — so recovery matters. Since CBD was removed from WADA’s prohibited list in 2018, more competitors have incorporated it into demanding training schedules. Some even endorse CBD publicly or launch their own brands. Here’s everything an athlete needs to know.
Evopure CBD — for recovery, sleep and performance
Is CBD good for athletes?
CBD (cannabidiol) interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) — which is involved in sleep, inflammation response, appetite and recovery. CBD isn’t a medicine or treatment, but many athletes use it as a supplement to support general wellbeing alongside training — particularly for sleep quality, recovery and stress management.
Read more: 7 CBD benefits
Is CBD legal for athletes?
WADA removed CBD from its prohibited list effective from the 2018 Code. THC remains prohibited in-competition and is a controlled substance in many countries including the UK.
- UK CBD products must come from approved hemp and contain no more than 1 mg THC per container — verify via the product’s COA
- CBD itself isn’t banned, but THC and its metabolites can trigger a positive test — choose broad-spectrum (0% THC) or isolate products to minimise risk
- Always check your specific sport governing body’s rules before competing
Benefits of CBD for athletes
Recovery support
CBD’s interaction with the ECS has attracted significant interest for post-exercise recovery and normal inflammation response management. Pair sublingual CBD oil with a CBD balm applied to sore areas for comprehensive recovery support.
Sleep quality
Quality sleep underpins muscular repair, growth hormone release and adaptation. Many athletes use CBD in the evening to support relaxation and wind-down — improving sleep depth and duration.
Digestive support
ECS receptors are present throughout the digestive system. CBD may support gastrointestinal comfort and healthy appetite — particularly relevant during heavy training blocks.
Stress and anxiety management
Training stress, competition anxiety and performance pressure all activate the HPA axis. CBD may help modulate cortisol and support a calmer baseline before and after training.
Looking for CBD to support your training and recovery?
Take our free quiz and we’ll match you with the right Evopure formula — sublingual oil, topical balm or both.
Take the free health quiz →Risks and side effects
CBD is generally well-tolerated. Possible effects include dry mouth, changes in appetite, mild fatigue or drowsiness, and digestive upset. If side effects occur, reduce dose or pause use. Consult a clinician if you take medications or have health conditions.
How to choose CBD as an athlete
- Spectrum: Broad-spectrum (0% THC) or isolate are safest for tested athletes. Full-spectrum contains trace THC which could accumulate with heavy use.
- COA: Independent batch lab test confirming cannabinoids (including THC level) and purity. Non-negotiable for competitive athletes.
- Format: Oil drops (highest bioavailability, fast onset) for systemic support; topical balm for targeted muscle and joint relief; capsules for consistent daily convenience.
17 famous athletes who use CBD
- George Kruis — Rugby union international; advocates CBD post-injury recovery
- James Haskell — England rugby & 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 competition
- Rob Gronkowski — NFL star; vocal about CBD’s role in sport recovery
- Eugene Monroe — Former NFL tackle; early advocate for CBD in sport
- Mike Tyson — Heavyweight champion; CBD advocate and entrepreneur
- Nate Diaz — UFC fighter; openly uses CBD for recovery support
- Alex Montagnani — BMMA athlete; promotes CBD oil for training
- Kieran Kevan — UKDFBA champion; uses CBD for post-workout relaxation
- Tomas Wolfe — UKBFF champion; endorses CBD for mental and physical balance
- Paul Pierce — NBA champion; uses CBD for emotional wellness
- Charley Hoffman — PGA Tour winner; uses CBD for recovery (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)
Frequently asked questions
Will CBD make me fail a drug test?
CBD itself isn’t banned, but THC is. Use broad-spectrum or isolate products and always check the COA to confirm 0% THC.
What dose should athletes start with?
Start low — around 10–20 mg/day — and titrate based on effect. UK FSA advises not exceeding 70 mg/day for healthy adults.
When should I take CBD — pre or post training?
Both serve different purposes. Pre-training: 30–60 minutes before for focus and calm. Post-training: topical balm immediately after for muscle soreness, sublingual oil in the evening for sleep and recovery.
Is full-spectrum CBD off-limits for tested athletes?
Full-spectrum contains trace THC within legal limits but could pose testing risk with heavy chronic use. Broad-spectrum or isolate is the safer choice for competitive athletes.
Find the right CBD for training and recovery
Take our free quiz and we’ll recommend the right Evopure formula for your goals.
Take the free health quiz →Final thoughts on CBD for athletes
From recovery and sleep to stress management and general balance, CBD has earned a place in many athletes’ routines. WADA permits CBD but THC remains banned — so always check your governing body’s rules and your product’s COA. Prioritise quality, dose thoughtfully, and combine CBD with the fundamentals: training, nutrition, sleep and smart recovery.
