Leg cramps, problems catching your breath, overall fatigue, dehydration – all of these things can happen during sex. On top of these issues, you might find yourself in the midst of passion when suddenly the thought of your jiggly bits (the parts of your body that you don’t like) pop into your head. Maybe to make matters even worse, you realize the position you are in might not be so flattering to your physique from your partner’s perspective. You become so self conscious of your body that you no longer enjoy sex. In fact, perhaps now you even fear it.

Sex can be physically tiring, just like any other physical activity, particularly if it’s sustained for a long duration. With spring right around the corner, and people’s thoughts turning to love (and lust), now is a better time then any to think about exercise. Better yet, now is a time TO START EXERCISING! The link between physical exercise and sex is actually quite interesting, and should not be underestimated.

Getting enough sleep, eating right and reducing stress are all important for having a satisfying sex life, but they are also really obvious and talked about elsewhere in great length (Thanks Dr. Oz!). What is less talked about  in my opinion though is the importance of getting exercise before you end up in bed with that special someone.

Exercise that is performed over a sustained period of time leads to the so-called “runner’s high” which is caused by the release of endorphins. These endorphins are stimulating and can assist in the process of the release of sex hormones. The added bonus is ofcourse that exercise causes us to feel better. It elevates our mood and creates a feeling of calmness (allbeit after we have had a chance to cool down and relax). The lowering of one’s heart rate, improved digestion, lowered blood pressure and lowered stress hormone levels combined with the feeling of well being caused by the endorphins results in a relaxed, content and highly sexual individual.

Satisfying sex lives isn’t just about the nuts and bolts of biology – it also improves self image. People who exercise often have a positive self body image, which might make them simply enjoy their bodies more. Studies show that those who exercise are more likely to experience a greater level of satisfaction and a positive perception of self image, which may cause them to believe they are more desirable and may therefore perform better sexually.

One last thought – sex itself is a physical activity that burns calories while increasing a person’s own physical fitness levels. Many factors will influence how many calories are spent during sex, however from what I’ve read most reports seem to indicate about anywhere from 90-120 calories are burned for a half hour session, which is about the same as a game of bowling for the same period of time. Unlike bowling though, sex can also increase self-esteem, cardio-vascular health, emotional intimacy, improve sleeping, and increase immunity!

So if getting to the gym to exercise for your health is not motivating enough for you then hopefully the thought of a better sex life will get you there without having a second thought.

Yours in Good Health,

Nick Cosgrove