0 Comments
CBD Oil – How it relates to fitness and your bodyWhile CBD is considered as the new “it” aid for a myriad of conditions and illnesses, it can also be used as a fitness and wellness supplement. This is primarily due to how CBD affects the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is spread throughout the entire body. Being part of the nervous system, it plays a modulatory role in the function of the brain, endocrine, and immune tissues. The functions that include regulating hormone secretion, appetite, pain management, and recovery all play a part in feeling balanced and present. Of course, no matter how you train or what your goals are, being in tune with your mind and body is a MAJOR key to maximizing your workouts. Let’s go into some details on how CBD can improve a person’s fitness regimen. Hormone RegulationMost of us have heard about the “runner’s high”. If you are not familiar with the term, it’s a rewarding and empowering sensation some people experience during longer workouts (it can be achieved in many forms of exercise, not just running). From my experience, it feels like running turns into floating. Energy and stamina levels feel boundless and it feels like you can go forever! I love how the runner’s high feels because it pushes a person to work harder in their workout, and it feels good doing it! It’s an incredible positive feedback loop to ride while exercising and is what makes people sign up for marathon after marathon. Endorphins vs EndocannabinoidsI used to believe that the runner’s high is caused by the endorphins that are secreted by the increased activity. Some exciting new research indicates that this is not the case though. Endorphins are too large to pass the blood-brain barrier right away. This means it is very likely they do not have direct effects on the brain—rather, they work in the muscles to suppress pain. Endorphins help bring one to the peak, but they do not cause the “high” sensation. Research from the University of Heidelberg suggests that endocannabinoids, which are also secreted during exercise, play a more substantial role in creating this high sensation compared to endorphins. This is due to their ability to cross the blood brain barrier. The evolutionary theory explains that our bodies release endocannabinoids to desensitize physical activity—which, back in the stone age, was essential for finding food and fleeing predators (survival). So… if endocannabinoids are the primary reason for experiencing this sensation, that means CBD will help a person experience this sensation more often in their workouts. Some people have never experienced the runner’s high before, and with CBD now available nationwide, there’s a good chance that number will increase over time. I have definitely noticed an escalation in falling into a runner’s high since I started to use CBD as a daily supplement. Naturally, the more you experience the runner’s high, the easier it is to achieve and the more you’ll want to keep training and keep progressing with your fitness goals of all types. What a WIN WIN! Appetite ControlIf you are looking to maximize your fitness, being mindful of what you put in your body for fuel is essential. We all work with different diet combinations based on what works for us individually. Some of us have allergies or are sensitive to some foods, while other people can eat whatever they want and still feel great or stay lean. Sometimes we fall into eating habits that our bodies do not necessarily agree with, especially when stressed. One of the most common unwanted eating habits is overeating. The last thing anyone wants to do when they’ve overeaten is to go workout, so this creates a domino effect that can stop anyone’s goals from being achieved. How does CBD help a person gain control over their diet?Unlike THC, CBD is not an appetite stimulant. In fact, CBD encourages satiety and fullness. How does this work? Let’s cover a couple things first:
The neural circuit in the hypothalamus that regulates Ghrelin is stimulated by CB1 receptors (a type of cannabinoid receptor in the brain). THC stimulates CB1 receptors, which increases Ghrelin, and that is why we get the “munchies”. CBD does the opposite; CBD inhibits CB1 receptors which curves your appetite and vanishes the cravings. So if you are looking for help in reducing how much you eat in a day, CBD will help regulate those appetite hormones. (However, if you are looking to bulk, I’d recommend a high THC strain over CBD if THC is legal where you are. Just make sure you’re not downing cookies and chips by the boatload because that will obviously not improve your health!) Another way CBD can improve your diet is by turning what you eat into energy. There are two different types of fat that food is turned into, white fat and brown fat. White fat is stored while brown fat is burned. CBD aids the fat browning process, helping you stay lean and fit. Pain Management and RecoveryAs many of us are beginning to understand, CBD contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This is extremely useful for post-workout recovery as it speeds up the recovery process. Anyone who knows anything about fitness and athletics knows the training itself is only a small part of the equation when it comes to improving your performance. Recovery is a much bigger piece and where all the progress really happens. Additionally, this reduces any pain that comes with the muscle inflammation which naturally makes for a better and more efficient training program. CBD vs Ibuprofen Many athletes and gym-goers use Ibuprofen/NSAIDs as their go-to fix to refrain the uncomfortable inflammation that can come after an intense workout. However, many people don’t realize that Ibuprofen can become really dangerous when taken regularly. It puts significant stress on the liver, majorly messes with gut health (the foundation of health). It can even be deadly. Instead of NSAIDS, other fitness fanatics are shifting to CBD for their aches and pains. Its anti-inflammatory properties are just as powerful, if not more, than ibuprofen. While this can be helpful for health problems like arthritis, it is also excellent for workout recovery. Something to remember is we are born with endocannabinoid systems, not ibuprofen systems. CBD and other cannabinoids work with the body, which comes with little to no unwanted side effects to worry about. Other benefits of CBD for FitnessOn top of these great benefits, CBD also reduces muscle spasms and can increase concentration ability for your workout. CBD products aren’t addictive or harmful to the body like many steroids and pharmaceuticals are. The phytonutrients in CBD give you a safe and strong burst of energy, enticing you to push harder, go faster and feel stronger. At the same time, CBD has analgesic effects that dramatically reduce pain, allowing to push through those muscle aches (just make sure to know your limits and not overdo it). And with no side effects, CBD is safe to use on a daily basis. As long as you’re taking care of yourself and not pushing beyond your limits at a given time, CBD can be the extra boost that is needed to persevere and hone your fitness. The last thing to note is all CBD Is not created equal. In a world of novelty and booming attention, new products hit the shelves every day. These contain fake cbd, additives, fillers, pesticides and even heavy metals. The last thing anyone looking for health benefits would want. It’s vitally important you use an oil that hits these marks: Organic – Non GMO Lab tested A TRUE Full spectrum Terpene rich Certificates of Analysis for each batch Is an activated oil ready to be utilized by your body Contains no additives, fillers, coloring or flavoring agents Is pure, natural and whole flower. Zen In A Bottle CBD is an excellent choice that meets all the vital criteria for athletes and anyone else wanting to improve their health! Share this entryGet More Updates to Your InboxThe post CBD Oil and Running: Beneficial or Just a Trend? appeared first on The Virtual Run Challenge. from https://www.thevirtualrunchallenge.com/cbd-oil-and-running-beneficial-or-just-a-trend/ Old Injury Acting Up? Here are 5 SolutionsWhether training or running a virtual race, a physical injury is painful and can prevent you from running at the frequency you wish. When you are working out, you should take precautions to reduce the chance of accidents or injury. This can stop you from dealing with pain and discomfort caused by strained muscles in the future. If you exercise regularly, you are at risk for muscle strains, knee injuries and shin splints. You may also be susceptible to developing tendonitis, shoulder injuries, sprained ankles and spraining your wrist. Once you are injured, the pain can last for years to come. Here are five solutions to help you deal with an old injury: Hot & Cold PacksIf you need relief from pain, using hot and cold packs can provide you with relief. When you have a muscle strain, apply heat increases circulation and allows blood to flow to the affected area. The warmth releases tightness and soothes discomfort. On the other hand, cold packs decrease the amount of blood in the affected area. The lower temperature numbs the injury and reduces inflammation and swelling around joint and tendons. Sign up for one of our Virtual Run Events today! StretchesWhen you stretch, the activity sends blood to the muscles and tendons. Your range of motion is increased as well as your ability to perform physically. It also reduces stiffness and allows your muscles to become more flexible. Physical TherapyPhysical therapy might be the best answer for chronic pain that won’t dissipate by employing therapeutic exercises. Physical therapists use techniques that manipulate your muscles and joints to increase mobilization. Many people prefer physical therapy because it’s a non-invasive, hands-on technique that reduces the necessity for drugs, expensive tests, and risky surgery. Physical therapists can help you heal without surgery, or they can assist before and after an operation to speed recovery. They can assist you to recover from an injury and provide advice on how to prevent further harm. Active Release Technique (ART)Active release treatments are useful for people that have tendon and ligament injuries. This technique includes using methods that release trigger points and tight muscles. These methods activate the muscles damaged because of an injury. It relieves muscle pain and helps reduce stress on your joints. ART is useful for lower back pain, shin splints, shoulder strains, and tennis elbow. ProlotherapyWith prolotherapy, a natural irritant is injected into the tissue surrounding the injured area and activates your immune system. This response helps your body begin to heal itself and regenerate damaged tissue. It is used for knee, joint, shoulder and ligament injuries. There are several methods for you to try when you have an old injury that is acting up. These techniques will decrease your pain and improve your range of motion, so you feel better quickly. This can enable you to start your the running marathons and challenges you might have been wanting to participate in the past.
VIEW MORE: The Virtual Run Challenge Elsewhere Online: The Virtual Run Challenge on About.Me The post Old Injury Acting Up? Here are 5 Solutions appeared first on The Virtual Run Challenge. from https://www.thevirtualrunchallenge.com/old-injury-acting-up-here-are-5-solutions-to-help/ Top 5 Reasons to Run a Virtual RaceMost people like finish lines and the sense of accomplishment that comes with it. But the hardest part of getting to the finish line can be just approaching the starting line. Virtual running events give you the opportunity to bask in the finish line without the stress of the start line because it’s all on your time and terms. Virtual runs put you in charge of how you experience the event and when and how you run or walk it. If you aren’t convinced yet, here are the top 5 reasons you should consider a virtual race. Virtual races ofter support charities and causes, meaning you get to give back to your community while enjoying the sport you love. No matter what you’re passionate about, you can most likely find a virtual race or race company that supports that cause. No matter what your next challenge is, a virtual race can help you meet your goals. From daily activity goals to earning that first race medal, the options are endless for how you challenge yourself. So, find your next virtual race challenge and start working toward your goals now. Oh, and did we mention you don’t have to contend with the weather? Rain, extreme heat and even snow can interfere with your first run event if you choose the traditional run experience. Virtual race events give you the flexibility to watch the forecast and complete the challenge in the conditions that suit you or you can even choose to complete your race in the comfort of being indoors on a treadmill to get your miles in. Virtual Races provide a great sense of accomplishment along with some bling to prove and commemorate the event. Virtual Race finisher medals come in really fun designs along with creative ways to display your race finisher medal. Do a search for “race medal display” and you’ll see how your race collection can become a pretty neat home decoration and conversation starter when you have guests over. There is a great community in virtual running and walking. If you want companions alongside you throughout your training and racing experience, you can certainly find that here. If you prefer to make it more of a private event, that’s possible as well. A common goal can be a strong tie that brings people together, and virtual events are a great goal to get you and your community motivated. Really, the opportunities and fun of virtual running are endless. You can always find a race to keep yourself motivated as you work through another goal and earn another medal because virtual races are done completely on your time. If you’ve never competed, there is no time like right now to begin your trek to the finish line of your first race and find your own reason to run a virtual race. To find your next race, visit the Virtual Run Challenge events page to find a challenge that suits you. The Virtual Run Challenge Elsewhere Online: The Virtual Run Challenge on About.Me The post Top 5 Reasons to Run a Virtual Race appeared first on The Virtual Run Challenge. from https://www.thevirtualrunchallenge.com/the-top-5-reasons-to-run-a-virtual-race/ 10 Tips to Help You Step Up Your Running GameWhether you are 17 or 70, if you are able-bodied, you can become a runner. Aside from the amazing “runner’s bod” and increase confidence, running is largely recognized for its health benefits. While there are so many incentives for running, it may be a bit difficult in the beginning. Here are ten tips on how to become a better runner. Start Off SlowIt is highly unlikely that you will start off running five miles a day the first week. If you take on too much too soon, you may end up quitting shortly after you start. View running as a marathon, not a race. The key is to build yourself up and become better over time. Start off jogging for about 15 to 20 minutes and build up in small increments. Wear Good Running ShoesPicking the right pair of shoes can determine whether or not you achieve success in running. It may sound like a silly issue to get hung up on, but choosing the wrong shoe can not only prove to be uncomfortable, but it can also cause you a few injuries. You will want to purchase a shoe that is specifically designed for running. Running shoes have cushioned soles and are tailored to absorb impact properly, so you won’t have to worry about having too much pain in the feet and ankles. Stay HydratedAs a runner, water is your best friend. Whether you are running in 100-degree weather or taking a winter jog, your body must be hydrated in order to move properly. Dehydration can cause fatigue and disorientation – this is the last thing you want to experience during a run. Running includes just about every muscle, ligament, and tendon within the body, so it is essential to lubricate them to prevent injury. Never Miss A Warm-upNeglecting to warm the body up properly may cause your run to be more difficult than it has to be. To begin a warm-up, you will need to jog in place or engage in some sort of gentle movement for about 30 seconds or so. Once you feel your body beginning to heat up, you can start stretching. Stretch every part of your body, especially your legs and arms to prevent injury. Stretching thoroughly will release tightness within your muscles and tendons and provide you with a full range of motion for a better stride. Use Proper FormThere is more to running correctly than one foot after another. While your lower body is fully engaged, you want to be sure to relax your top. Do not clench your jaw or bunch your shoulder up to your ears – this adds unnecessary pressure to the body. To avoid tiring out your biceps and shoulders, keep your hands above your hip bone (no higher than that) and avoid swinging your arms from front to back. You will also want to slightly lean your body forward and strike on the balls of your feet. Take Deep BreathsWhen we get winded, it is often instinctual to take short, fast breaths. This is essentially gasping for air, and it will tire you out quicker. Taking deep, sufficient breaths will maximize the oxygen fuel for the body. Breathing through your nose is the best technique as it will maintain more control and deliver an adequate amount of oxygen to your lungs. If you are unable to carry on a conversation while running, you are probably not breathing correctly. Set An Attainable GoalAlways have a goal set in place for yourself. Set deadlines and diligently work to meet them. The aim of setting a goal is to push yourself to become your better version. Create healthy competition within yourself. Be patient and become familiar with your strengths and capabilities. Always track your progress. Crush one goal, and move on to the next. Strength TrainA strong core makes for an even stronger runner. Strength training will help to prevent injuries during running. Many runners will have complaints regarding knee injuries – this is often due to weak hips muscles causing an increased load around the knee area. To strengthen your hips, do exercises like side steps, squats, and hip extensions. We also pump our arms while running to establish our pace, so stronger arms essentially equate to a faster speed. Exercises such as push-ups and other weighted arm exercises, planks, and crunches will help to strengthen the upper body. Challenge YourselfThe goal is to be better than you were yesterday. While you may have some crappy days here and there, always look to make more progress than you did the previous week. Try increasing your distance or running up a hill. Test your limits as much as possible. You never know how far you can go until you try. Learn About Your Body TypeAs in any type of exercise, your body type matters. There are three main types of body types: ectomorph, endomorph, and mesomorph – most of us are a mixture of these. Understanding your body type and becoming familiar with your strengths and weaknesses will help you to be able to set realistic goals for yourself. While runners come in all shapes and sizes, ectomorphs (small and lean) and mesomorphs (heavily muscled) are better suited for running. Endomorphs may have to train a bit harder for results as their build tends to be a bit softer and rounder with shorter legs.
The most important thing to consider while trying to begin running or become better at it is to just show up. Consistency is the key component to achieving anything in life. There are no shortcuts to being a great runner. One of the most helpful things any starting runner can do is by making some sort of accountability system like having someone they have to report to, or by joining an online group that tracks their progress. Remember to just take the good with the bad, push yourself further, take breaks when needed, set goals and achieve them, and show up to do it all again another day!
Article sources: Share this entryGet More Updates to Your InboxOriginally posted 2018-09-10 20:48:28. Republished by Blog Post Promoter The post 10 Tips to Help You Step Up Your Running Game appeared first on The Virtual Run Challenge. from https://www.thevirtualrunchallenge.com/10-tips-to-help-you-step-up-your-running-game/ In today’s busy world where work has taken over the entire life of an individual, an anti-stress session has been limited to wish lists only. Who does not want to take part in recreational activities? But the aggressive deadlines and hectic schedules have left many people only dreaming of adventure. Science says running is the best anti-stress workout but still, not many people follow a regular jogging routine, let alone participating in marathons. Don’t get surprised seeing hundreds of people running a marathon, rather just think why couldn’t you take part in it? The answer will simply be inadequate time, or your schedule didn’t match to that of the marathon. And it is not only you but the majority of other people will also have the same excuse. So, what should be done now? Don’t worry, there are certain people out there who have already come up with an adventure run where you don’t have to worry about your schedule. It is known as Virtual Race and there is a substantial number of people who have already taken part in such events. Virtual Racing, in simple words, is racing as per your convenience. Our virtual run events consist of a 3.1 mile run known as Virtual 5K Race, and a 6.2 mile run known as Virtual 10K Race. A racer can also run a 13 miles race which is known as The Half Marathon. Owing to the fact that excuses are immortal, you might be wondering what makes a virtual run more unique than a traditional run? Then go through these points:
By participating in a Virtual Race, you introduce a positive change in your lifestyle. You gift yourself so many health benefits, both physically and mentally. Stress relief, normal blood pressure, weight control, etc., are minimum guaranteed benefits, but the feeling of completing your objective will boost a new level of confidence in you. It is also worth mentioning that if you participate in a Virtual 5K or 10K Run, it doesn’t benefit only you, rather it benefits an entire community. When you register for a Virtual Race and pay a certain amount as fees, a portion of that amount is donated for various charitable causes. So, you are keeping yourself fit and meanwhile contributing in various good causes. So, set aside your excuses and weaknesses, register today for a Virtual Race and run as per your convenience. All you have to do is register online, select location and time as per your schedule, and run. And remember, you will get a trophy as well. Isn’t it fun!!! The Virtual Run Challenge Elsewhere Online: The Virtual Run Challenge on About.Me The post What is a Virtual 5K, 10K Race and Why Should One Participate appeared first on The Virtual Run Challenge. from https://www.thevirtualrunchallenge.com/what-is-a-virtual-5k-10k-race-and-why-should-one-participate-2/ In today’s busy world where work has taken over the entire life of an individual, an anti-stress session has been limited to wish lists only. Who does not want to take part in recreational activities? But the aggressive deadlines and hectic schedules have left many people only dreaming of adventure. Science says running is the […] The post What is a Virtual 5K, 10K Race and Why Should One Participate appeared first on The Virtual Run Challenge. from https://www.thevirtualrunchallenge.com/what-is-a-virtual-5k-10k-race-and-why-should-one-participates/ |
About UsThe Virtual Run Challenge was started as a community for individuals to come together to share their passion for movement and to create a unique way to raise money and more importantly awareness for causes that touch our every day lives. The Virtual Run Challenge offers Running Events including, Virtual Racing, Virtual 5k Races, Virtual 10k Races, and Virtual Races for Medals. Our Virtual Races continue to benefit numerous charities. Visit our website and discover the exciting world of Virtual Running! ArchivesNo Archives Categories |