By: Chris McCurry
Sure, it’s fun, but did you know that sex is also a form of physical activity that can help keep your body healthier?
While it may not be the first thing that comes to mind when your significant other gives you that side-eye but sex can provide a range of physical benefits that are like those achieved through more traditional forms of exercise. From increased cardiovascular health to improved muscle strength and flexibility, the auxiliary benefits of sex are certainly worth exploring.
Below are some of the facts that prove sex can indeed be a good workout.
Benefits of Sex
Here are some of the benefits of sex:
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Yes, sex can be a great cardiovascular workout. As the body's heart rate and blood flow increase during sexual activity, it can provide some of the same benefits as moderate-intensity aerobic exercise. In addition to improving heart health, this increased blood flow can also help reduce the risk of certain conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
In fact, some research has even shown that men who have sex regularly may be at a lower risk for heart attacks and other cardiovascular events.
Increased Muscle Strength
But sexual activity isn't just good for the heart – it can also help strengthen and tone various muscle groups. Depending on the positions and movements involved, sexual activity can engage muscles in the arms, legs, and core, helping to build strength and improve muscle tone. So don’t be afraid to get in those extra reps.
Improved Flexibility
And let's not forget about flexibility! Depending on movements, that afternoon delight can involve a variety of positions that can help improve flexibility, particularly in the hips and lower back. Sex can be beneficial for those who have sedentary jobs or spend a lot of time sitting. Just another reason to get up to get down.
How Many Calories Does Sex Burn?
Let’s get nerdy with it. How many calories you burn during sexual activity can vary greatly depending on many factors, including:
- the intensity and duration of the activity – don’t be afraid to go for that 2-point conversion.
- the positions and movements involved – it’s good to mix it up a little and step out of the norm. Just be sure to communicate with your partner.
- your weight, age, and fitness level – The more out of shape the more progress can be made
Some estimates suggest that a 25min sexual activity (don’t worry guys, that’s foreplay included) may burn about 101 calories per session, depending on these factors.
How to Improve Sex as a Physical Exercise
Well, certainly sex isn’t a substitute for more traditional forms of exercise. However, improving your sex life can significantly boost your physical health.
Here are some tips for maximizing the potential benefits of sex as a workout:
- Vary the positions and movements: Experimenting with different positions and movements can help engage different muscle groups and increase the physical demands of sexual activity
- Increase the duration and intensity: Like any form of physical activity, the benefits of sexual activity can be increased by increasing the duration and intensity of the activity
- Warm up and cool down: As with any physical activity, it’s important to warm up and cool down properly to reduce the risk of injury. Keep this in mind if you’re recovering from any injury or physical limitations.
Is Sex a Workout?
Definitely. Depending on the positions and movements involved, sexual activity can work the core muscle groups, get your cardiovascular system moving, improve flexibility, and burn some fat while you’re at it.
So, the next time you're looking for a fun and enjoyable way to justify getting in a workout, consider some of these benefits with your partner. You both might be surprised at the physical benefits it has to offer. As always, it’s also important to practice safe sex and to be communicative with your partner.
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