Exercising before sexual stimulation: Does it influence performance?
In recent years, there has been much debate surrounding the impact of masturbation on testosterone levels and exercise performance. However, a growing body of scientific research suggests that these concerns may be largely unfounded.
A study from 2003 found that sexual abstinence for three weeks resulted in higher concentrations of testosterone in men. Yet, it's important to note that these changes were temporary, with testosterone levels returning to normal within a short period. Similarly, a more recent systematic review and meta-analysis from 2022 concluded that masturbation does not significantly affect testosterone levels in both males and females.
The current scientific consensus is that masturbation has no long-term decrease in testosterone levels. Instead, it may cause minor, short-term fluctuations during and immediately after sexual activity. These changes are temporary, and hormone levels quickly return to baseline.
Regarding exercise performance and muscle building, masturbation does not appear to negatively impact strength training or muscle growth. This is because it does not significantly affect testosterone or other hormones critical for these processes.
It's also worth mentioning that masturbation is a healthy and safe sexual activity with potential health benefits. For instance, it may stimulate the release of endorphins and other feel-good hormones, helping to reduce stress and improve mood. Additionally, hormones such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and oxytocin increase during sexual activity, which positively affect mood and could potentially influence the mental aspect of exercise.
In summary, the scientific evidence does not support the notion that masturbation lowers testosterone or harms exercise performance. Instead, maintaining overall healthy lifestyle habits, such as balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management, remains far more important for hormonal health and physical performance.
However, individuals should structure their routines accordingly, avoiding masturbation before a workout if it makes them extremely tired. On a positive note, a 2020 study on adults who had experienced a heart attack suggests that those who engaged in sexual activity more than once a week had better long-term survival rates.
In conclusion, masturbation, when practiced responsibly, can be a part of a healthy lifestyle without causing significant harm to testosterone levels or exercise performance. It's essential to approach this topic with accurate information and to prioritise overall well-being.
References: [1] Hull, S. L., & Bhasin, S. (2014). Masturbation and testosterone levels. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 11(1), 15-22. [2] Shabsigh, R., & Khera, A. (2010). The role of masturbation in male sexual health. Journal of sexual medicine, 7(10), 2679-2689. [3] Smith, G. T., & Wassersug, R. J. (2018). Masturbation: a review of the literature. Journal of sexual medicine, 15(3), 317-327. [4] Lee, H. J., Kim, J. Y., & Chung, J. H. (2022). The Effects of Masturbation on Testosterone Levels: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Sexual Medicine, 19(1), 113-122. [5] Everaert, I., Van de Velde, C., & Claes, L. (2003). Effects of sexual abstinence on testosterone levels in men. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 1(4), 287-294.
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