Effects of Cannabidiol Supplementation on Skeletal Muscle Regeneration after Intensive Resistance Training

Cannabidiol supplements (CBD) are increasingly consumed by athletes to improve regen-eration. However, the evidence for the pro-regenerative effects of CBD in sports is quite limited.Therefore, our aim was to investigate the effects of a single CBD supplementation in a six-armplacebo-controlled crossover study after resistance training on performance and muscle damage.Before and after the resistance training, one-repetition maximum in the back squat (1RM BS), coun-termovement jump (CMJ), and blood serum concentrations of creatine kinase (CK) and myoglobin(Myo) were measured in healthy, well-trained participants. 16 out of 21 participants completed thestudy and were included in the analysis. In 1RM BS, a significant decrease was observed after 24 h(p< 0.01) but not after 48 and 72 h. A significant group difference was detected after 72 h (p< 0.05;ES= 0.371). In CMJ, no significant changes were observed. The CK and Myo concentrations increasedsignificantly after 24 h (CK:p< 0.001; Myo:p< 0.01), 48 h (CK:p< 0.001; Myo:p< 0.01) and 72 h(CK:p< 0.001; Myo:p< 0.001). After 72 h, significant group differences were observed for bothmuscle damage biomarkers (CK:p< 0.05ES= 0.24; Myo:p< 0.05;ES= 0.21). The results show smallbut significant effects on muscle damage and recovery of squat performance after 72 h. However,more data are required for clearer statements concerning potential pro-regenerative effects of CBDsupplementation after resistance training.