Exercise is Even Good for Your Sex Life!

Ok, now that I got your attention ;-)

As an integrative health and wellness coach, you know I am always pushing the benefits of exercise as key to longevity goals...energy generating, calorie burning, disease fighting and extended life expectancy. Now, here's another perk...a sexual one!

As far as your muscles are concerned, sex is just another workout. And like most workouts, the more conditioned you are, the more enjoyable it can be.

Yes, you can train for sex. Any physical activity can improve your sexual health. But a few exercises are especially beneficial.

5 Exercises for a Better Sex Life

Work in bursts of high intensity cardio

The cardiovascular system powers two bodily systems that are important for sex: erections and vaginal lubrication. Without proper blood flow, one will likely have trouble achieving or maintaining either. Research also suggests that aerobic exercise itself can stimulate arousal. In addition, sex can sometimes be vigorous and aerobic, interval training helps prepare our bodies for this type of cardiovascular activity.

Do Kegels...Women AND Men

The health of your pelvic floor, the hammock of muscles that sits at the base of the pelvis, can make the difference between a gratifying sexual experience and a lackluster or even painful one — for women and men. Kegel exercises, which mimic the effort of holding and releasing urine or gas, can be an effective way to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles leading to better orgasm and a more gratifying sexual experience.

Limber Up Your Hips

Most people spend hours a day sitting, which can lead to tight hip muscles, fascia and ligaments. When your hips are tight, you may experience back and pelvic pain during sex. Suggested exercises for hip mobility/hip flexors: kettlebell swings (rhythmic movement mimics sex), squats, glute bridges and stretches that emphasize the flexion and extension of the hips.

Focus on Your Core

The more strength you have in your core, the more you will be able to move easily during sex. Most of the nerves and muscles that are involved in sex are integrated into the core, and strong core muscles can also help to reduce back and hip pain before, during and after sex.

Yoga

It helps to relax both the body’s parasympathetic nervous system and the pelvic floor. Even the breathwork alone is valuable. You might find that vaginal penetration is more comfortable. You might find that erections come more easily, or find yourself in the mood more. Remember, stress is the enemy of erections and desire!

As an integrative health and wellness coach, I remind you, it's about balancing our life plate...it's ALL connected!

...and that's Sunday's Food for Thought!

Jodi