CBG for Martial Arts: Recovery, Focus & Training Support

Martial arts places unusually high demands on both body and mind. Training is physically intense, recovery matters as much as the session itself, and mental clarity can be the difference between a sharp performance and a sluggish one.

More martial artists are now exploring cannabinoids as part of their training and recovery routine. In particular, CBG — cannabigerol — is attracting attention. Unlike CBD, which has dominated the sports supplement conversation, CBG is less well-known. But the early research and user reports are interesting enough to be worth understanding.

This article explains what CBG is, what researchers currently know about it in an athletic context, and which products from Canna Health Amsterdam martial artists tend to reach for. CBG products are food supplements — they are not medicines and are not intended to treat any condition.

What Is CBG?

CBG stands for cannabigerol. It is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in hemp. Researchers sometimes call it the mother cannabinoid because the plant produces CBG first, before converting it into CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids as it matures. Because of this, most hemp plants contain only small amounts of CBG — which is part of why it has taken longer than CBD to appear widely in products.

CBG interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS plays a role in regulating pain perception, inflammation, mood, and recovery. In addition, CBG shows affinity for adrenergic receptors and serotonin receptors, which is why researchers study it in contexts beyond pain and inflammation.

However, human clinical research on CBG remains limited. Most studies are preclinical — conducted in animals or in laboratory conditions. So the findings are promising but not yet clinically established.

What Does the Research Show for Athletes?

The area most relevant to martial artists is CBG’s potential interaction with inflammation and recovery pathways. Early research suggests CBG may interact with the COX-2 enzyme pathway — the same pathway targeted by many common anti-inflammatory medications. However, this research is preclinical. We do not yet have human trials specifically studying CBG for sports recovery.

A 2021 survey of CBG users by Patel et al. found that the most commonly reported uses were anxiety management and pain relief. Many respondents also noted that they used CBG alongside physical activity. But because this was a self-report survey, it cannot establish causation or compare CBG to a control.

In terms of focus, CBG’s interaction with adrenergic receptors is relevant. Adrenergic receptors play a role in attention and stress response. So researchers study CBG in the context of mental clarity and stress regulation — both useful for the focus demands of martial arts training.

In short: the scientific rationale for CBG in an athletic context is plausible and the early signals are interesting. But the clinical evidence is still thin. Athletes who use CBG are working with preliminary data, not established clinical outcomes.

CBG Products for Training and Recovery

At Canna Health Amsterdam, several CBG products are popular with athletes and people in active training. Here is an overview of what people reach for most and why.

CBG CBD Oil — 15% (CBG 1000 mg / CBD 500 mg) and 30% (CBG 6000 mg / CBD 3000 mg)

A full-spectrum oil combining CBG and CBD in a sublingual format. Sublingual absorption is faster than edibles — typically 15–45 minutes. The combination of CBG and CBD is popular with athletes because the two cannabinoids interact with different receptor systems, which some researchers describe as a complementary effect. The 15% version suits daily use; the 30% version is for people who have already established their preferred dose.

CBG Crystals — 99.9% pure CBG, 1000 mg

Pure CBG isolate with no other cannabinoids. Because it contains only CBG, it allows precise dosing without the variables of a full-spectrum product. It can be mixed into oils, added to food, or placed under the tongue. A good option for people who want to isolate the CBG effect specifically rather than a combined cannabinoid formula.

CBG CBD Lollipop — 50 mg CBG / 50 mg CBD, cherry flavour

A pre-dosed edible option. Onset is slower than sublingual oil due to digestion, but the duration tends to be longer. Some people use this format post-training because it is convenient and consistent. Each lollipop delivers the same amount every time.

CBD CBG Massage Oils — Argan Oil & Lavender / Argan Oil, Camphor & Mint

Topical oils combining CBD and CBG for direct application to muscles and joints. Each variant contains 250 mg of combined CBD and CBG. Topical cannabinoids work locally rather than systemically — they do not enter the bloodstream in meaningful amounts. The Argan Oil & Lavender blend is a calmer option; the Camphor & Mint variant has a cooling, stimulating effect that many athletes prefer for post-training application to sore areas.

How to Use CBG as Part of a Training Routine

CBG products work best as part of a broader training and recovery routine — not as a standalone solution. Because CBG is non-intoxicating, it suits use at any point in the day. However, timing can influence how it fits into your routine:

• Pre-training: sublingual oil 30–60 minutes before a session suits people who use CBG for mental focus and stress management during training.
• Post-training: topical massage oils applied directly to worked muscle groups after a session. Sublingual oil or a lollipop post-training suits people focused on systemic recovery.
• Daily: consistent daily use rather than occasional use tends to give a clearer picture of how CBG affects you. Like many supplements, the effects build over time.

Start with a low dose and adjust slowly. Individual responses to CBG vary significantly depending on body weight, metabolism, and the specific product. Always read the product label and check the COA before use.

CBG is non-intoxicating and legal in the Netherlands and most EU countries. However, if you compete in regulated sport, always check the current WADA prohibited substances list before using any cannabinoid product. CBD is currently permitted by WADA, but always verify the status of specific products.

Final Thoughts

CBG is not yet a clinically proven recovery or performance supplement. The research is early and mostly preclinical. However, the mechanisms are scientifically plausible, user reports from athletes are consistent, and it is non-intoxicating and EU-legal.

For martial artists curious about cannabinoids, CBG is worth exploring — particularly if you have already tried CBD and want to understand how the two compare. Starting with a sublingual oil or topical massage oil gives the clearest entry point.

As with any supplement, be clear about what you are taking, check the COA, and give it a few weeks of consistent use before drawing conclusions.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational and educational purposes only. We review and reference available studies and reputable sources; however, content may not reflect the most current research or regulations and should not be taken as medical, legal, or professional advice. We do not make or imply health claims. Products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and statements have not been evaluated by EFSA or the FDA. Effects can vary between individuals. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before use and verify that any product or ingredient is lawful in your jurisdiction.