Exercise Your Way to Better Sex

Let's sculpt your sexual narrative...

Here’s a hot topic. Exercise and sex. Is there a connection? Does a dash of cardio lead to more satisfying bedroom adventures? Yup, the docs and research they’ve conducted over the years tell us it does. Not only can exercise lead to better sex, but it can also help alleviate some common sexual issues that women experience. Now that’s some heavy lifting! Let’s dish on why and check out some exercises you can do to get that heart pumping.

Why Exercise Makes Sex Oh So Much Better

There are a bunch of reasons why hitting the treadmill makes things under the sheets oh so much better. Let’s start with physiology. Exercise helps your nervous system regulate your heart rate, respiration, and wait for it… arousal. (01) That’s due to the Increased blood flow to your entire body, including your pelvis. Improved circulation can heighten sensations and give you a more intense experience when you’re intimate. Consider this. Just 20 minutes of exercise could boost sexual arousal by as much as 169 percent. (02) Those are good odds!

Then, there’s the endorphin rush. Good for your mood, even better for your relationship. Increased stamina? Bring it! Loving your size and shape? We’re in. An optimistic mindset and self-confidence make all the difference in the bedroom.

And when your sex life has gone awry (let’s face it, it happens), a workout may help with that too. Research has found that exercise can help with low libido and difficulties achieving an orgasm among women who are on antidepressants or have had hysterectomies. (03)

Ready to get moving? Don’t worry, you don’t have to start training for a marathon or become a powerlifter. Whether the only time you run is if someone is chasing you or you can’t go a day without hitting the gym, we’ve got you covered.

Dance the Night Away

If you’ve watched Dirty Dancing, you know it’s difficult to deny that there’s a link between what happens on the dance floor and in the bedroom. If you haven’t thought about trying out a sultry salsa class or a tantalizing tango session, now’s the time! Prefer to go solo? Check out a local Zumba or hip-hop class. Dance workouts are not only fun and a fab way to burn calories, but they can also awaken your inner seductress. All of that twirling, swaying, and dipping can build sensual energy that turns into unforgettable moments later on.

Make Your Heart Race

Running, rollerblading, biking, brisk walking… pretty much any aerobic activity that increases your heart rate will also increase your circulation. And, when blood flow increases to your nether regions, it helps with vaginal lubrication and clitoral stimulation. Not to mention that sweating it out releases dopamine and other feel-good hormones that make you happy and give you energy. That makes you more likely to want to have sex.

Say Namaste

Not only is yoga a great way to unwind and clear your head, but it’s also been proven to improve all areas of women’s sexual function, including desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain. (04) The best thing is that you don’t have to leave your house to benefit. Simple moves such as planks, cat stretches, upward / downward dogs, and pelvic tilts can be done almost anywhere in your home.

Jump In

Chlorine isn’t exactly what most people would consider an aphrodisiac, but get this. A study on rats found that swimming improves sexual desire and performance. (05) Another study discovered that female swimmers report higher sexual satisfaction than non-active women. (06) The good news is that you don’t have to dive in head first. Even moderate swimming produces measurable results.

Do Some Heavy Lifting

Did you know that men aren’t the only ones who produce testosterone? Women do too. However, our testosterone levels dip as we age, especially during and after menopause. Enter weight lifting and strength training. It not only strengthens your muscles and your bones but also boosts your testosterone levels and libido. When it comes to strength training, remember that consistency is more important than how much you’re lifting. Slow but steady wins the race.

Get to the Core

Pilates is a great choice if you want to bring your A-game to the bedroom. Pilates exercises strengthen your pelvic floor, which runs from the bottom of your pelvis and supports your pelvic organs. Pilates helps you train and gain control of these muscles so you max out the sensations you feel during sex. Don’t have access to a studio with reformers and fancy equipment? Grab a yoga mat, a squishy ball, and some stretchy bands. There are plenty of good videos on YouTube that you can watch and do at home. Mat workouts can be equally as effective if done correctly.

Exercise Together

Need a little extra motivation? Plan workout sessions with your partner. Not only is it more fun, but you’re also less likely to get bored. Catch up on your day and encourage each other. Who knows, one thing may even lead to another!

It’s All About Reaching Your Personal Best

Exercise is your friend with benefits. It’s not about firmer abs or a fab butt (although those are nice perks). It’s about being strong and healthy. It’s about embracing your body’s unique beauty. It’s about reveling in the confidence that comes from taking care of yourself. It’s about getting your body prepped for the best sex ever.

Not into traditional workouts? Fear not! There are endless ways to get your body moving. Walking, dancing, rock climbing, rollerblading, yoga, anything goes. The key is to find an activity that lights up your soul and lets your inner sex kitten out to play. Remember, you’re not just sculpting your body, you’re sculpting your sexual narrative. Talk about getting the most out of your workout!