Whether you’re already using CBD (cannabidiol) or just thinking about it, you might be wondering when to take it in order to get the best effect.
Different forms of CBD are absorbed at different rates, which means there’s no “one size fits all” answer for CrossFit athletes.
Here are some key things to consider about the timing of your CBD doses:
#1: You Probably Don’t Need More than Two Doses Per Day
Normally, the effects of CBD last for quite some time. This means that 1 – 2 doses of CBD per day are enough in many cases … and you definitely don’t need to time your doses down to the minute.
While a bottle of CBD capsules or tincture might seem expensive, you might only be spending $1 – $2 per dose, so it’s not going to cost you a lot on a daily basis.
#2: Some Forms of CBD Work Much Faster Than Others
If you take a CBD capsule, or if you like your CBD in the form of gummies, then it will take 1 – 2 hours for the effects to kick in.
However, if you take CBD sublingually (under the tongue), you’ll start to feel the effects within 30 minutes. The CBD bypasses your digestive system and gets straight to your bloodstream.
Vaping is another fast absorption method. Again, the CBD gets straight to your bloodstream, via your lungs. You don’t have to digest it first. This means it can take effect in as little as 2 minutes.
#3: Your Reasons for Taking CBD Will Affect Your Dosage Timings
There are quite a few different ways in which taking CBD could help you as a CrossFitter, and your reasons for wanting to take it will affect when you take it.
If you’re taking CBD to deal with stress and anxiety that’s affecting your workout, you’ll likely want to take your first dose early in the day and another dose shortly before your workout.
If you’re taking CBD to help you with your CrossFit training itself, then you’ll want to ensure the effects are at their maximum while you’re working out, by taking CBD beforehand.
Alternatively, if you’re taking CBD to help you get a good night’s sleep, then you’ll want to take it in the evening – probably well in advance of bedtime so that it can help you wind down and get ready to sleep.
And if you’re using a topical CBD ointment, then you can apply it to your muscles and joints post-workout to soothe your muscles and ease tightness and soreness.
#4: CBD Side Effects May Affect Your Dosage Timings
CBD can potentially make you sleepy – which probably isn’t what you want just before a tough workout! If you find CBD is affecting you that way, you could try reducing your dose, or you could stick to just taking CBD in the evenings.
CBD can also cause diarrhea and reduced appetite, which might be disruptive to your training regime. Again, reducing your dosage may help, as well as potentially adjusting your timings.
As a CrossFitter, you’ll want to experiment and find the best timing for your CBD doses, to see what works best for you. Keep in mind that different methods of taking CBD may prove more (or less) effective for you, so consider experimenting with these too.
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