The legal changes surrounding cannabis affect many sectors including sport. Several athletes have come forward stating that they use cannabis.
Some sporty tokers feel that some cultivars like the Jealousy strain (which you can find at https://theseedfair.com/jealousy-strain-overview/) helps them relax. Others believe that marijuana helps them get into the zone of complete focus.
The World Anti-Doping Agency still prohibits the use of cannabis in sports. Some athletes have faced bans for consuming it.
You might be curious about what the data says. Read on to discover more about marijuana in sports.
Cannabis and Athletic Performance
Does weed give sportspeople a competitive advantage? The answer is complex, and the research is vague.
According to the Institute of Biochemistry in Cologne, using marijuana doesn’t improve athletic performance. Some professionals argue that despite these studies, it may still benefit the athlete.
They liken the use of cannabis to the use of alcohol in archery. The beverage may help steady the archer’s hand giving them an unfair advantage. There’s no direct evidence supporting this claim for cannabis.
How Marijuana Impacts Athletes
What makes marijuana so appealing to sportspeople? Athletes are prone to injuries and inflammation from exertion. One of the reported benefits of marijuana use is reducing inflammation.
Research suggests that cannabis may help with pain. These range from moderate aches and muscle spasms to more chronic conditions. In some cases, athletes replace opiates with CBD and cannabis products.
Getting a good night’s rest is essential for sportspeople. Cannabis products may assist with getting enough sleep. There is evidence suggesting that THC induces sleep.
Research also suggests that the compound may assist with sleep apnea. CBD on the other hand plays a role in helping athletes get a peaceful slumber.
It may help with REM disorder. The condition causes people to act out their dreams. The result is daytime fatigue. Some sports people opt for CBD oil before bed to ensure they’re well rested.
Marijuana and Sport
Professional sporting organizations are strict in their regulations regarding weed. THC faces a complete ban. The rules are applicable even in places where the substance is legal.
When it comes to CBD, there’s more leniency. The World Anti-Doping Agency no longer lists the compound as a prohibited substance.
The removal of the cannabinoid caused various sporting bodies to permit its use. The allowance comes with certain caveats.
When using CBD, athletes need to be cautious. The flower or certain products may contain THC. If these are detected during testing, the sports person may face negative consequences.
It’s best to get your products tested independently. Verifying the contents gives you peace of mind.
Risks and Concerns for Athletes Using Cannabis
Many well-known athletes advocate for cannabis use in sports. Among them are top contenders in their fields. While many emphasize the benefits of cannabis, there are certain drawbacks.
Legal implications are the first concern. Even though global perspectives on weed are changing, the laws in each region vary. In some places, it’s banned outright.
Athletes often travel for competitions and tournaments. Consuming illegal substances in some places could hurt their public image and even cost them sponsors.
The world has seen consequences firsthand in 2009. In the incident, an Olympic swimmer got photographed with a bong. In this instance, it was implied use, but it caused outrage and scandal.
Health implications are another aspect to consider before indulging in cannabis. Athletes who smoke cannabis may experience respiratory problems.
Marijuana in combustible form can cause damage to the lungs. The result may be a reduction in endurance and respiratory capacity.
Weed may affect your cognitive abilities. If taken shortly before a performance, they could be a negative factor. It may reduce the athletes’ reaction time. The effects of weed may also impact coordination.
The Final Whistle on Weed and Sport
Marijuana use in sports remains a hot topic filled with controversy. While certain benefits are clear, there are various risks to consider.
Available research shows that marijuana doesn’t give a competitive edge during performance. Advocates for marijuana argue that its use impacts players positively off the field.
Now that you know more about cannabis and sports, it’s easier to form an informed decision. Why not grow your own CBD plants and determine if the benefits are indeed true?
