Is sex considered exercise?

The energy expenditure measured during sex was similar to that of brisk walking, while masturbation was only equivalent to light exercise, such as slow walking.

According toTheConversation, studies since 1960 show that during sex there is an increase in breathing, heart rate and blood pressure. This is a sign that the body is working at a high rate, similar to during exercise.

Recent studies have shown that sexual activity causes physical changes of up to 75% compared to maximum exercise. The energy expenditure measured during sex is similar to that of brisk walking.

Sex is not only a fun experience but also brings many health benefits. Illustration: popsugar.

So is sex considered exercise?According to experts, it depends on your definition of exercise. If you compare the physiological changes that occur to the body afterward, sex is like exercise. However, in terms of the long-term benefits of changing the body, there is no comparison. Because for most people, sex cannot be maintained long enough or occur frequently enough to have the same beneficial effects on the body as regular exercise.

There are some things sex can't replace exercise for. For example, muscle strength is achieved through diet and supportive exercises, not sex.This study also mentioned the difference between men and women. Men are more physically active than women when it comes to sexual activity. When masturbating, heart rate and blood pressure increase, but the level and duration of this increase will not be as high as when having sex directly with a partner.Evaluation of heart rate measurements showed that masturbation was only equivalent to light exercise, such as slow walking.

In many cases, exercise can be helpful in improving sexual health. For example, pelvic floor exercises in women with pelvic pain have been shown to improve sexual function, increase control, confidence, and reduce pain. In men, pelvic floor exercises have been shown to help with premature ejaculation.

For professional athletes, sex has been shown to have no negative impact on athletic performance. However, it can have a negative impact on recovery if you compete or train within two hours of having sex.

According to VNE