Exercise linked to improved erectile and sexual function in men

Men who exercise more have better erectile and sexual function, regardless of race, according to a recent study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine.

While past studies have highlighted the relationship between better erectile function and exercise, African-American men have been underrepresented in this literature.

"This study is the first to link the benefits of exercise in relation to improved erectile and sexual function in a racially diverse group of patients," said Adriana Vidal, PhD, senior author of the study and investigator in the Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute and Department of Surgery.

Nearly 300 study participants self-reported their activity levels, which researchers then categorized as sedentary, mildly active, moderately active or highly active. The subjects also self-reported their sexual function, including the ability to have erections, orgasms, the quality and frequency of erections and overall sexual function.

Results found that men who reported more frequent exercise, a total of 18 metabolic equivalents, or METS, per week, had higher sexual function scores, regardless of race. MET hours reflect both the total time of exercise and the intensity of exercise. A total of 18 METS can be achieved by combining exercises with different intensities, but is the equivalent of two hours of strenuous exercise, such as running or swimming, 3.5 hours of moderate exercise, or six hours of light exercise.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can improve your health in many ways. Along with improving erectile function, exercise can:

Strengthen the heart.
Build energy levels.
Lower blood pressure.
Improve muscle tone and strength.
Strengthen and build bones.
Help reduce body fat.
Help reduce stress, tension, anxiety, and depression.
Boost self-image and self-esteem.
Improve sleep.
Make you feel more relaxed and rested.
Make you look fit and healthy.

To get the most benefit, you should exercise at least 20 to 30 minutes, preferably on most days of the week. If you are a beginner, exercise for a few minutes each day and build up to 30 minutes. Discuss starting an exercise program with your doctor.

In contrast, men of any ethnicity who exercised less reported lower levels of sexual function. Additional contributors to low sexual function included diabetes, older age, past or current smoking and coronary artery disease.

Stephen Freedland, MD, co-author on the study and director of the Center for Integrated Research in Cancer and Lifestyle in the Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, cautions that exercise should be tailored for each individual.