Workout enthusiasts are increasingly adding hemp-derived CBD to their daily supplement regimen. From pro athletes to active older adults, many people are curious about how CBD might fit into their exercise and recovery routine.
While research is still developing and CBD is not a treatment or cure for any disease, some individuals use it to support post-workout comfort, relaxation, and overall wellness.
Muscle Soreness and CBD
Whether you’re getting back into the gym after a long break or pushing through an intense training block, it’s common to feel sore after a workout. Exercise creates microscopic tears in muscle fibers, which can lead to temporary inflammation and that familiar “I really worked out” feeling. Over time, the repair process is part of how muscles adapt and grow stronger—but it isn’t always comfortable.
CBD is often discussed in the context of supporting a healthy inflammatory response and everyday discomfort. Some early studies have looked at how cannabidiol might influence inflammation and mobility, and many individuals anecdotally report that CBD helps them feel more comfortable after challenging training sessions.
In an interview with Men’s Health, NASM-certified personal trainer and former sprinter Tara Laferrara described her experience with CBD this way:
“As a personal trainer and someone that works out every day and really pushes myself a lot, I noticed the biggest difference in inflammation and stress after a workout. It basically manages and prevents my joint inflammation, that aching kind of feeling, that I'd get after a heavy lift day.”
Responses are individual, but many people choose a CBD tincture—such as those offered by Also Organics—as part of their post-workout routine to support overall comfort.
CBD Topicals for Post-Workout Soreness
For more targeted areas—like stiff shoulders, tight calves, or a sore lower back—CBD topicals are a popular option. Balms and salves let you apply CBD directly to the skin over the area you want to focus on.
Products such as Also Organics 500 mg Pain Salve combine full-spectrum CBD with ingredients like menthol, lidocaine, and organic beeswax in a fast-absorbing formula. Many users reach for this type of topical when they want localized support after a workout or long day on their feet.
Topicals won’t replace medical care for injuries, but they can be a useful part of a broader comfort and recovery strategy.
Is CBD Safe?
Hemp-derived CBD is generally considered well tolerated by many people when used appropriately. One review in the journal Frontiers in Neurology noted that high doses of CBD—up to 1,500 mg per day—were repeatedly reported as well tolerated in human studies.
That said, CBD can interact with certain medications, and everyone’s body is different. It’s important to:
- Talk with your healthcare provider before starting CBD, especially if you take prescription medications or have a medical condition.
- Start with a low serving and increase gradually if needed.
- Choose products from brands that provide clear labeling and third-party testing.
CBD Instead of NSAIDs?
Professional athletes such as UFC fighter Nate Diaz and former NFL offensive lineman Eugene Monroe have publicly discussed using CBD as part of their personal recovery routines. Their openness has increased interest in CBD as an alternative or complement to traditional over-the-counter options.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin are commonly used for pain, but long-term or heavy use can be associated with side effects including gastrointestinal irritation, ulcers, elevated blood pressure, and kidney or heart concerns in some individuals.
Because of this, some people explore CBD as a way to support everyday aches and exercise-related discomfort. However, CBD is not a direct replacement for prescribed therapies or medical advice. Always consult your doctor before changing, reducing, or substituting any medication.
Rest, Recovery and Sleep
Quality rest is essential for recovery. After a tough workout, deep, uninterrupted sleep helps muscles repair and supports hormones involved in performance and recovery.
Some people find that CBD taken in the evening—either as a tincture, capsule, or gummy—helps them unwind and maintain a more relaxed state at bedtime. Early research has explored CBD in the context of sleep and insomnia, but more data is needed, and results can vary from person to person.
Healthy sleep habits (like a consistent bedtime, limiting screens before bed, and not overtraining) remain foundational. CBD, when appropriate, may be used alongside these habits as part of a broader nighttime routine.
Bringing CBD Into Your Workout Routine
Whether you train daily or stay active a few times a week, CBD and exercise can complement one another in a wellness-focused lifestyle. People commonly experiment with:
- Tinctures or oils taken once or twice daily.
- Capsules or gummies for pre-measured servings.
- Topical balms and salves for targeted areas after workouts.
- CBD beverages as a relaxing part of a post-workout cooldown routine.
Start slowly, observe how your body responds, and always work with your healthcare provider if you have questions or existing health concerns.
If you’re curious about adding CBD to your workout routine, the Also Organics product line includes tinctures, topicals, and other formats designed to fit easily into everyday life.