Can Pre-Workout Sex Improve Your Performance at the Gym?
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For the study, researchers tested 11 male and 10 female athletes using sprinting, jumping, and strength training tests over the course of three weeks. After completing the physical tests, the athletes took an anonymous online survey about how many times they’d had sex or masturbated during the past week and the number of days since the last occurrence. They were also asked how they felt sex impacted their performance.
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The study authors found that whether or not your sex sesh impacts your sweat sesh probably depends on your attitude and how you’re achieving your orgasm.
The three-week study found that athletes who believed getting physical before their performance would only up their game were way more likely to actually have better results after they had sex. They were 68 percent more likely to see a boost in their sporting prowess after fooling around.
But for the athletes who thought pre-performance sex would only distract them from their game (or drain their energy), four in 10 saw diminished jumping, power, and acceleration abilities after getting it on.
Not all sex is created equal, though. Across the board, masturbation is better for your performance than sex with a partner. The study found that getting it on solo before performing increased agility by more than 10 percent and strength by 13 percent overall. Sex with a partner only boosted those areas by 3 percent and 0.7 percent, respectively. Just another reason to masturbate tonight, folks.
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So if you’re looking to work on your agility, the researchers say it’s the perfect excuse to schedule more alone time with your partner. But if you’re looking to boost your strength next time you hit the gym, the researchers suggest you’re better off upping your number of solo sessions. (Check out these spicy sex toys from the Women’s Health Boutique to make your solo romp even hotter.)
With a training plan like that, you can’t really lose.