Sexual activity may feel like a workout, but does it really count as exercise? Many people wonder whether sex can help them burn calories and contribute to their fitness goals. In this blog post, we will explore the research and provide insights into how sex can burn calories for men.
What Does the Research Say?
According to various studies, sex can indeed burn calories. However, the exact number of calories burned during sexual activity varies depending on factors such as duration, intensity, and the specific positions and movements involved.
One study found that sex burns approximately three to four calories per minute. This may not seem like much compared to traditional forms of exercise, but the cumulative effect can be significant over time.
How to Burn More Calories During Sex
If you're looking to maximize the calorie-burning potential of sex, here are some tips:
- Go Longer: Increasing the duration of your sexual activity can help you burn more calories. Consider trying extended foreplay or exploring different positions to prolong the experience.
- Make it Steamy: Adding variety and excitement to your sexual encounters can increase your heart rate and calorie expenditure. Experiment with new techniques, role-playing, or incorporating sex toys to spice things up.
- Try Different Positions: Certain sexual positions can be more physically demanding and require more energy expenditure. Positions that involve more active movements and engagement of major muscle groups can help you burn more calories.
Other Benefits of Sex
Besides the potential calorie burn, engaging in regular sexual activity offers several other health benefits:
- Healthy Heart: Sex can be a cardiovascular exercise that helps improve heart health and circulation.
- Stress Relief and Better Sleep: Sexual activity releases endorphins, which can reduce stress levels and promote better sleep.
- Stronger Pelvic Floor Muscles: The contractions and movements involved in sexual activity can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which can improve bladder control and sexual satisfaction.
Bottom Line
While sex may not be as effective as a dedicated workout session at the gym, it can still contribute to your overall calorie expenditure and provide various health benefits. By increasing the duration, intensity, and variety of your sexual activity, you can enhance the calorie-burning potential. Remember, sex should be enjoyed for pleasure and intimacy, rather than solely for its fitness benefits.
