As CBD industries around the world continue to grow, certain trends begin to become clearer. Trends such as which products make a particular splash in certain areas, or which demographics respond to CBD products. One of the most interesting of these trends that have cropped up in the CBD world to date, though, is the popularity of the Cannabis-derivative among sports personalities, and in particular, Golfers.
A growing number of professional golfers appear to be becoming more interested in Cannabis for its potential anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties. This trend has even led to some professionals even signing endorsement deals with CBD brands. So, what could CBD really do for golfers?
Using CBD in Golfing
Muscle Recovery
Given its constantly touted potential for the treatment of inflammatory conditions, CBD is becoming a popular option for treating muscle soreness. In most sports, participants will suffer from pain in their muscles, relating to their activity. Some sports personalities are now turning their back on traditional pain medications, in favour of a more natural ingredient. ‘Pain’ often tops lists for the most quoted reasons for using CBD
Relieve Anxiety and Stress
One of the most talked-about benefits of the Cannabis compound is its ability to ease anxiety and stress. These are also very popular reasons given by people who use CBD products. Anxiety affects one in six people in the UK, from week to week, according to AnxietyUK.
Pro Golfer Scott McCarron, who has an endorsement deal with CBD company Functional Remedies, stated:
“Most people don’t realize the incredible level of mental stress and anxiety that comes with pro golf. In order to continue playing and performing at the highest level, I need to take care of the one body I have.”
Official PGA Guidance
Despite the undeniably growing popularity of CBD in the golfing world, the PGA has recommended that using the ingredient is “at the individual’s own risk.” The sporting body quotes a lack of transparency in the CBD industry, caused by confusion over regulation.
Despite the ingredient being made federally legal in 2018, with the passing of the so-called Farm Bill, the FDA in the US has been unsure how to go about regulation. This has resulted in a lack of trust throughout a large section of the industry.
Many golfers, including World No.2 Rory McIlroy have expressed paranoia about using the ingredient:
“I even wouldn’t be comfortable taking CBD oil. Like that’s my — I would be too paranoid that there will be … THC in it and then that obviously could lead to a positive test.”
The PGA and Cannabis
The legality issue surrounding Cannabis in general in the US may also become a headache for the PGA. As more states seem to be leaning towards legalisation, (17 states, plus Washington DC have already legalised recreational Cannabis), golfers may become increasingly impatient with the current guidelines.
American pro Matt Every recently received a three-month ban for his medical Cannabis use, despite being prescribed the medication. Every claimed in a statement that he was unable to benefit from the allowed painkillers. He also expressed that he didn’t wish to accept the high risk of addiction associated with such medications.
It is unlikely that the PGA will consider removing the, still federally illegal, plant from their list of banned substances. However, it seems that CBD will continue to thrive in the golfing industry. Endorsements, such as that between McCarron and Functional Remedies, and Bubba Watson and CBDmd, will continue to promote the CBD among golfing stars.
