Can CBD impact your golf performance?
BLOG BY JOE JACKSON
Why more and more golfers are getting into the swing of cannabidiol
CBD seems to be everywhere at the moment - from the standard oils and lotions to sports drinks. However, despite it infiltrating the world of wellness, people are still confused about how legitimate it is, particularly as it is a chemical compound from the marijuana plant. We now know the many benefits associated with CBD, and that unlike its cousin THC, it is not psychoactive, meaning you will not get "high" (more about the basics, here).
The calming properties associated with it have seen it move past just the traditional wellness space and into the sporting domain. Athletes, particularly professional golfers, have really taken to it with the subsequent improvements in their game because of it. But who, exactly? And is it helping their game? If so, how is it doing this?
Why CBD for Golf?
There has been an influx of golfers using CBD. Golfers use CBD for three main purposes: aiding recovery, reducing inflammation and making them feel more relaxed. While the science behind CBD’s effectiveness is still in its infancy a number of studies have emerged showing how it can deal with these common golfing issues.
The relaxing element has been detailed in multiple studies. One such study was conducted in Brazil and was measuring the effect of CBD on public speaking test anxiety. The researchers found that a 300-mg dose of CBD was the most effective at significantly reducing anxiety during the test. (1) it has also been shown to help children struggling with anxiety around PTSD. (2)
The ability to aid recovery has also been at the centre of scientific enquiry. Recent studies have shown how it tackles the task of reducing inflammation. One study conducted on rats found that oral CBD treatment significantly reduced sciatic nerve pain and inflammation. (3) After playing golf one of the common feelings is the inflammation in the joints, particularly after 18 holes. With the importance of recovery particularly for the top golfers it is imperative that they have the tools necessary to ensure an adequate recovery.
Why are golfers allowed to take it?
Despite the potential health benefits of CBD, it was on the banned substance list before 2018. Any golfer found to have taken the substance would have been banned from the game for a set number of time. This was revised in 2018 when the World Doping Agency took it off the banned substance list, forcing the hand of the PGA Tour Anti-Doping organization who quickly followed suit. (4)
Which golfers now use it and how does it improve their game?
Since this decision we have seen a number of golfers have decided to use CBD to try and improve their game.
One of the most famous golfers of the modern era, Bubba Watson, believes that CBD has played a key role in pre-longing his game, he said:
“So for me it was about how I create longevity in the game of golf and spending time with my kids running around. CBD was easily a fit for me.” (5)
It is not only Bubba who has seen the powerful recovery effects of CBD. Famous golfing names such as Lucas Glover and Scott McCarron have experienced the same positive effects first-hand. One of the most iconic names in the world of golf - Phil Mickleson - is a keen advocate of CBD to manage his aches and pains as he approaches the twilight of his career.
Which golfers now use it and how does it improve their game?
Since this decision we have seen a number of golfers have decided to use CBD to try and improve their game.
One of the most famous golfers of the modern era, Bubba Watson, believes that CBD has played a key role in pre-longing his game, he said:
“So for me it was about how I create longevity in the game of golf and spending time with my kids running around. CBD was easily a fit for me.” (5)
It is not only Bubba who has seen the powerful recovery effects of CBD. Famous golfing names such as Lucas Glover and Scott McCarron have experienced the same positive effects first-hand. One of the most iconic names in the world of golf - Phil Mickleson - is a keen advocate of CBD to manage his aches and pains as he approaches the twilight of his career.
What does Truth have to say?
While we are not promising to improve your handicap overnight, many athletes have noticed noticeable positive impacts of using Truth's CBD - including our founders!
The power of CBD - both as a product to aid recovery, and as a friend in strengthening relaxation feelings and limiting anxiety - have a great effect to keep you on your A game. Our wide range of CBD products allow you to choose the one that suits you best based on your lifestyle and activity. Hopefully you find that you can get one step closer to emulating Phil Mickelson!
References:
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30328956/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5101100/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17157290/
[4] https://www.golfdigest.com/story/the-real-truth-about-cbd-and-how-it-can-affect-your-golf-game
[5] https://golftoday.co.uk/which-golfers-use-cbd/
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