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CBD 101 - Learn The Basics [2021] image

CBD 101 - Learn The Basics [2021]

UPDATED February 24, 2021

There is a huge buzz around CBD lately - but there is still a lot of confusion around what CBD is, and how it works.

As you explore CBD’s potential to support your optimal performance, we’ve compiled a few important points to add to your arsenal of knowledge around this hemp-based supplement.


What is CBD?

CBD is a natural essential oil extracted from the hemp plant. It is one of over a hundred cannabinoids extracted from a strain of industrial-grade hemp which offers a host of benefits.

Of at least 120 identified cannabinoids that exist in the hemp plant, CBD makes up about 40 percent of the extract from the hemp plant.

CBD does not provide the psychoactive properties of THC, another cannabinoid most associated with the feeling of being “high”. That’s because CBD and THC act in different ways on different receptors in the brain and body.

Hemp and marijuana are not the same thing. While marijuana contains high levels of THC, the compound responsible for the sensation of “getting high”, CBD oil derived from hemp and contains little to no THC.

Trace amounts of THC in Champions +Legends hemp derived supplements are well under limits outlined for all major athletic associations, while maintaining the benefits associated with a full-spectrum CBD. C+L products contain THC levels well below 0.3%, and are tested 6x to assure for this quality, purity and integrity  


What is full-spectrum CBD?

With less processing and all of the natural cannabinoids, full-spectrum CBD is the most effective type of CBD extract, able to offer the most benefit

Broad spectrum and isolate varieties of CBD remove THC entirely, whereas full-spectrum CBD formulations enable the “entourage effect”. This means all of the cannabinoids work together as a team to achieve synergies and improve the overall impact on the body.

With over 120 naturally occurring plant compounds - known as cannabinoids - in industrial hemp, each compound plays an important role in the overall effectiveness of CBD products. Having the complete range of naturally occurring plant compounds and cannabinoids in full-spectrum CBD provides maximum benefit



What is the endocannabinoid system?

Understanding the endocannabinoid system will help you appreciate how Cannabidiol (aka CBD) can benefit you. The Endocannabinoid system represents a network of neurotransmitters that mediate reactions to stress, pain and inflammation in all of our bodies.

The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in regulating a broad range of physiological processes that affect our mood, our energy level, our digestive and immune systems, blood pressure, bone density, glucose metabolism, how we experience pain, stress, hunger, and more.

Studies show that the ability to modulate the endocannabinoid system holds therapeutic promise for a broad range of diseases, including neurodegenerative, cardiovascular and inflammatory disorders, obesity/metabolic syndrome, tissue injury and pain, among others.

CBD interacts with the receptors in the endocannabinoid network, helping the body manage stressors and promoting homeostasis to achieve a better sense of balance and groundedness.

CBD can act as a neurotransmitter and has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, providing its users with a host of benefits ranging from muscle pain relief to better sleep.


Is CBD legal?

The 2018 US Farm Bill allowed for hemp cultivation broadly with states responsible for licensing a regulating hemp. This means that hemp is no longer a controlled substance but an agricultural product - opening the door for increased production, distribution and research.

CBD products became fully legal for sale at a federal level across the entire US, provided they are derived from the industrial hemp plant and contain less than 0.3% THC.

While over 30 states have legalized medical marijuana, the remaining states have all passed laws allowing the use of cannabidiol (CBD) extract, usually in oil form, with minimal or no THC.

The bill also streamlined the process for researchers to study CBD, leading to increased research on CBD and more insight into the many benefits it provides.


How much CBD should I take?

The ‘right’ dose of CBD is different for everybody. Just like with any other supplement, its effectiveness will change based on factors other than just weight. Your age, metabolism and tolerance to CBD, and the issue you are trying to treat are all important factors which influence how much CBD you should take in order to see results.

Start Small – We always recommend starting off with smaller doses and gradually increasing as needed. Although too much CBD won’t cause any harm, you don’t want to take more than you need and waste your product.

Take Daily – Everyone’s body is different when it comes to CBD. Many people need to build up the substance in their system in order to start seeing benefits. If you don’t see results right away, keep up your daily doses for a month and see if anything changes.

Common dosage ranges are 20-40 mg per dose. Finding the right dose for can help unlock the whole range of benefits CBD can provide. Be patient and don’t be afraid to experiment to find the dosage that works best for you.


What is the best way to take CBD?







Topicals - are a great way to treat localized pain and inflammation. A 2015 study showed a reduction in pain and inflammation in rats when a topical solution of CBD was applied. This method avoids the need for CBD to have to go through the digestive system as with any type of CBD that needs to be ingested, providing more immediate relief to the affected area. C+L has a range of topicals that help depending on the type of pain or soreness you are experiencing:

RECOVER Roll-On Gel

750 mg full-spectrum CBD

  • Targeted relief for those tight and sore medium-sized muscles
  • Deep muscle penetration and soothing massage with unique stainless steel roller applicator

RECOVER Muscle Cream

500 mg full-spectrum CBD
Soothing relief for those large muscles and muscle areas that are tired before, during or after a workout such as:

  • Shoulders
  • Arms
  • Quadriceps
  • Lower back and glute muscles
  • Cooling sensation provides instant relief
  • Helps calm inflammation

RECOVER Muscle Rub

1000 mg full-spectrum CBD
Penetrating relief for those hard to reach sore spots and knots
Ideal for localized relief to address specific muscle or joint pain, such as:

  • Base of elbows
  • Fingers and Wrists
  • Knees, including behind the knee
  • Designed to help muscles recover by helping calm inflammation
  • Relaxing menthol and wildflower extracts support active recovery


Tinctures - are a liquid form of CBD that are easily consumed and absorbed by the body. They are convenient, have a long shelf life, and are absorbed easily when taken under the tongue

RECOVER Tinctures

500 mg | 1000mg full-spectrum CBD

  • Helps you to wind down at the end of the day
  • Helps calm lingering muscle pain and addresses inflammation
  • For fastest results place a dose under your tongue and leave it there for 30-60 seconds before swallowing the tincture
  • Precise dosing, with easy filling and minimal waste every time

PREPARE Tinctures

500mg |1000 mg full-spectrum CBD.

  • Tincture is tasteless and can be taken directly, or easily mixed into food or drinks, including: Coffee, Tea, Smoothies and Smoothie Bowls
  • Helps with increased alertness and to maintain focus
  • Addresses lingering muscle pain the day after hard training
  • For fastest results place a dose under your tongue and leave it there for 30-60 seconds before swallowing the tincture


Transdermal applications - transdermals can be a discreet way to have a fast acting, consistent dosage of CBD delivered to your body without having to go through the digestive system.

RECOVER Transdermal Patch

60 mg full-spectrum CBD per patch (5 patches in a pack)

  • Patch can be cut into smaller pieces if desired
  • Discreet way to address pain and soreness
  • Can be worn under clothing, for use during the day while training or in the office
  • Long-lasting with a consistent dosage over 8-12 hours
  • For best results: place patch on a venous part of the body, such as inside of the wrist or top of your foot