An international team of scientists has discovered an unobvious effect of intimate activity that may be beneficial for physical fitness.
Researchers tested the common belief that sex before exercise "drains energy" and obtained data that calls this myth into question. The results were published in the journal Physiology & Behavior.
The experiment involved trained men: on one day they abstained from intimate activity, while on another day they experienced orgasm half an hour before the tests. The volunteers then performed a workload on a cycle ergometer and a grip strength test. It turned out that endurance and strength indicators did not worsen — on the contrary, on average, participants endured the workload slightly longer and showed slightly higher strength results.
Biochemical measurements showed a short-term increase in hormones related to the mobilization of the body's resources, as well as an increased heart rate — signs of nervous system activation. At the same time, markers of muscle damage and inflammation did not increase, indicating the absence of additional "wear and tear" after such activity.
The authors emphasize that the effect is small and does not turn intimacy into a "sports supplement." However, the data suggest that moderate sexual activity shortly before exercise does not hinder physical readiness and can serve as a gentle physiological "warm-up."
