CBD and THC for Runners

Using CBD and THC Products in a Runner’s Training and Recovery Routine

For many in the running community, staying consistent means more than just lacing up—it means actively supporting the body and mind between workouts. As conversations around recovery tools evolve, more runners are turning to products featured in our CBD for runners guide to complement their training plans and enhance recovery.

The Another Mother Runner (AMR) community, known for its supportive and inclusive approach to running, is among those exploring hemp-derived CBD as part of their wellness toolkit. Many in the community trust Nature’s Gem CBD, a CBD & THC store founded by a former runner turned road cyclist and Certified Pilates Instructor. After being sidelined with fibromyalgia, she focused her professional attention on recovery, movement, and alternative wellness strategies—insights that now guide the product offerings at Nature’s Gem.

Below, we break down how CBD and THC products may fit into a runner’s weekly rhythm—from training and race prep to recovery and injury management.

Understanding CBD and THC Product Types

Before incorporating any cannabinoid products into your training routine, it’s helpful to understand how formulations differ:

  • CBD Isolate: Contains only cannabidiol (CBD) and no other cannabinoids, including THC. It is considered the safest option for athletes concerned about drug testing or cross-contamination.
  • Broad Spectrum CBD: Contains CBD along with other non-psychoactive cannabinoids and terpenes. While it’s typically marketed as THC-free, trace amounts of THC are present due to how it’s extracted, which could pose a risk for those in tested sports. For elite runners, broad-spectrum products will also contain other cannabinoids that are illegal under the US Anti-Doping Agency rules.
  • Federally Legal THC Products: Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived THC products (with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight) are legal at the federal level and can be sold outside dispensaries. These are often used for evening relaxation or deeper post-run recovery but are not recommended during training.

 

Important Note: All CBD products sold by Nature’s Gem CBD are made with CBD isolate—meaning they contain no THC or other cannabinoids. This distinction is especially important for elite or competitive runners who may be subject to drug testing and want to avoid the risk of banned substances.

AMR CBD and THC choice for runners

Training Days: Calming the Mind Without Losing Focus

Running is as mental as it is physical. Whether you’re preparing for a big workout or a long race, pre-run nerves and mental overdrive can interfere with performance.

Some runners have found that THC-free CBD gummies, especially those made from organic hemp, promote a calmer, more focused mindset. These gummies do not impair mental clarity or physical performance, which makes them a popular option before tempo runs or virtual races.

Products like the 25mg THC-Free CBD Gummies sold by Nature’s Gem are used by runners who want to feel grounded at the start line—without sedative effects.

Because Nature’s Gem uses CBD isolate, these products are appropriate for runners concerned about anti-doping regulations or sensitive to any form of THC.

Pre- and Post-Run: Supporting Sore or Tight Muscles

Tight calves, IT bands, or post-run stiffness can be part of any runner’s routine—especially as mileage or intensity ramps up. This is where topical applications like CBD Sports Cream or CBD Rejuvenating Max CBD Balm come in.

These topical lotions or balms are designed to be applied directly to muscle and joint areas, both before a run to support mobility and afterward to aid in relaxation and recovery. While they don’t “treat” anything specific, many athletes report that regular use helps them feel more comfortable during the recovery process and better prepared for the next workout.

Nature’s Gem products sold on the site are made with Colorado-grown hemp and tested by a third-party lab; these products are valued for their ingredient transparency and their role in active lifestyle maintenance.

Everyday Balance: Gummies and Oils Without THC

Incorporating CBD into a daily routine doesn’t have to revolve around injuries or high-mileage training. Some runners use CBD oil or THC-free gummies as part of a proactive self-care plan.

Nature’s Gem’s isolate-based oils and gummies offer consistent, THC-free formulations—making them a safer option for athletes in competitive or tested settings.

These products are especially helpful for managing what many in the AMR community call the “background noise” of training: disrupted sleep, lingering soreness, or TMI issues like GI discomfort on long runs.

Rest & Recovery: When to Consider THC for Runners

While daytime CBD use is popular for focus and recovery, some runners turn to CBD + THC combinations after harder efforts or when they’re having difficulty unwinding at night.

These products aren’t typically used during training but are ideal for evening wind-down routines or post-race recovery. THC-infused options can enhance the body’s natural relaxation response, helping runners feel more at ease. If you need to unwind before bedtime, products with CBN,  adds additional support for nighttime relaxation.

For those seeking a runner-recommended option, our top-selling Comfortably Numb combines CBD, THC, and CBN—making it a favorite for effective, full-spectrum recovery.

Dosing Suggestion for products with THC

Because every body reacts differently, it’s important to follow dosing guidelines and start with low amounts—especially if you’re new to THC or cannabis plant strains in general. We recommend starting with a quarter of a gummy and waiting at least 1-1.5 hours to feel a state of relaxation. See how your body reacts and adjust accordingly.

 

Injury Management: High-Strength CBD & THC Options

When dealing with more serious discomfort or recovering from injury, runners often seek out stronger, more targeted support. The CBD for runners guide below highlights recommended products designed to address deeper soreness, aid recovery, and keep you moving comfortably.

Use Case

Product Type

THC-Free

Notes

Calm before training

25mg THC-Free CBD Gummies or 500 mg CBD Oil

Used by runners to support focus and ease pre-run nerves

Localized post-run tightness

CBD Rejuvenating Max Balm or CBD Recover Ice Sports Cream

Applied to legs, glutes, feet, or back before and after runs

Daily balance & wellness

1250 mg or 2500 mg CBD Oils or THC-Free Gummies

Isolate-based, with no THC or additional cannabinoids

Evening or post-race relaxation

CBD + THC Products, Comfortably Numb, Nirvana

Best used at night; start low and adjust dosage gradually

Recovery from injury or strain

2500 mg CBD Oil

High-strength isolate for deeper recovery support

 

Final Thoughts: Tools for a Smarter Running Training and Recovery Process

CBD and THC products are not performance enhancers—they’re recovery tools that some runners use to support mental clarity, muscle relaxation, or evening rest.

Because Nature’s Gem products are made from CBD isolate, they allow runners to explore the benefits of hemp without the worry of ingesting broad spectrum CBD or THC. For those training hard, returning from injury, or simply trying to stay balanced while maintaining an active lifestyle, this approach may offer a meaningful addition to the toolbox.

 

Ready to take your training to the next level?

Explore our CBD and THC shop page and find the perfect products to support your recovery and performance!