- CBD has become popular in golf, and for good reason - here's what to know about it
CBD is growing in popularity among athletes and those wishing to maximize their daily performance. And when it comes to golf, you don’t have to look far to see its popularity. The 2019 PGA Merchandise Show showcased six CBD-related exhibits. At the 2020 PGA, this number grew to 19. Professional golf players, such as Lucas Glover, Charley Hoffman and Bubba Watson are even fronting CBD companies. So what is all the fuss about. And more importantly, what can CBD do to improve your golf game? Read on to find out.
What is CBD and is it Legal
Just like tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, cannabidiol, or CBD, comes from the cannabis plant, however, unlike THC, it won’t make you high. This is because CBD usually contains minimal doses of THC. It is believed that CBD works by increasing your number of cannabinoids. These, in turn, communicate with the endocannabinoid system in your body, which regulates hormones and your immune response.
In the United States, CBD is legal in all 50 states under federal law, as long as it has under 0.03 percent of THC. Some states have implemented their own laws, however. For example, in Virginia, you would need a prescription to consume CBD. As such, it pays to familiarize yourself with the CBD laws in your state. Organizations, such as the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, have online databases that make it easy to check what the situation is in each state.
Fewer Aches and Pains
Although it may not seem like it, golf is just as physically demanding as many other sports. In particular, the repetitive swinging and walking for miles can take its toll on your body. It is not uncommon for players to stretch and tear their muscles during a game—after all, where do you think the expression golfer’s elbow comes from? Pain and stiffness, in turn, can affect both your performance on the green and quality of life. As such, many players take CBD as a replacement for habit-forming pain-killers and steroids.
Decreased Inflammation
Inflammation can be caused by repetitive movements, and as such is an issue for many golfers. Using your muscles and joints in the same manner over and over again for a prolonged period of time can even turn into arthritis (in fact, CBD is a common treatment for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis). Luckily, CBD can also be of help here, as studies have shown that it impacts endocannabinoid receptor activity, which reduces inflammation.
Less Performance Anxiety
Professional golfers need to keep anxiety under control—after all, it’s hard to pot that perfect ball while you are thinking about everybody watching your every move. While your skills may not be at the same level yet, reducing your level of anxiety can definitely help your game. CBD is famous for its ability to alleviate anxiety without reducing energy and focus, both of which are crucial when it comes to playing golf.
Better Sleep
Whether you are a professional or an amateur golfer, we all need our beauty sleep. Golf is a surprisingly demanding game—both physically and mentally—so it is important that you are well-rested prior to hitting the green. CBD not only reduces anxiety, but can also help you get better sleep before that all-important game. According, to researchers the substance can increase both the length and quality of sleep.
Better Heart Health
Good heart health can make a difference to your performance on the green. According to a number of studies, CBD can lower blood pressure and improve the circulatory system. The stress-reducing properties of CBD are also believed to reduce cell death associated with heart problems. CBD also protects the heart by relaxing blood vessels and reducing oxidative stress caused by free radicals.
How to Use CBD
CBD is derived from the cannabis sativa plant in the form of oil or powder, which can be administered in a variety of ways. Here are just a couple of the ways CBD is commonly consumed, each one with its own set of pros and cons.
Tablets and Edibles
Capsules, softgels and edibles are a simple and discreet way of taking CBD. They can also be easier to doze than oil tinctures. CBD edibles usually come in the form of gummies or food supplements. In addition, tablets and softgels are usually neutral in flavor, which makes them ideal for those who don’t appreciate CBD’s earthy taste. Since CBD is partially broken down in the digestive tract and liver, however, CBD edibles are not as easily absorbed as oil tinctures.
CBD Oil Tinctures
Also referred to as sublingual products, oil tinctures are placed under the tongue and held there for up to 60 seconds. They can also be mixed into drinks. CBD oil tinctures are ideal for those looking for fast results. They are also more readily absorbed than edibles. On the other hand, CBD oil usually comes in a dropper, so it can be tricky to doze. It is also not as discreet as edibles or tablets.