150mg CBD before a 10km run had no effect on mood, enjoyment, pain, or performance in recreationally active adults.
Athletes considering CBD, sports medicine professionals, and anti-doping regulators.
150mg CBD had zero significant effects on any exercise outcome
What the researchers found
In 51 participants, 150mg oral CBD 90 minutes before a self-paced 10km run had no significant effects on any outcome compared to placebo. Exercise itself improved mood and reduced anxiety.
Why it matters
CBD is increasingly marketed to athletes. This trial found no enhancement of exercise experience, providing evidence against marketing claims while confirming CBD does not impair exercise.
The numbers in context
51 participants. 150mg oral CBD. Zero significant effects on any outcome. Exercise itself improved mood.
How the study worked
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. 51 participants (22 female, median age 22). 150mg CBD or placebo before outdoor 10km run.
What this study cannot tell us
Single 150mg dose. Recreational population. Acute single-dose design. Outdoor running variability.
How to read the evidence
Well-designed crossover RCT, but single dose and recreational population.
When this study was published
Published in 2024.
The bigger picture
Previous uncontrolled observations suggested CBD might enhance exercise. This placebo-controlled trial does not support that but shows CBD is safe during exercise.
Questions still open
- Would higher doses or chronic use produce different effects?
- Do trained athletes respond differently?
Common questions
Does CBD help with exercise?
Is CBD safe for exercise?
Read the original research
The Effect of Cannabidiol on Subjective Responses to Endurance Exercise: A Randomised Controlled Trial.
Sports medicine - open, 10(1), 61
Citation
McCartney, Danielle; Irwin, Christopher; Bawa, Zeeta; Palmer, Blake; Sahinovic, Ayshe; Delang, Nathan; Cox, Gregory R; Desbrow, Ben; Lau, Namson S; McGregor, Iain S. (2024). The Effect of Cannabidiol on Subjective Responses to Endurance Exercise: A Randomised Controlled Trial.. Sports medicine - open, 10(1), 61. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40798-024-00727-3
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