The similarities between a sweaty workout and a sweaty romp in the bedroom are undeniable! Come on, the heavy breathing, pounding heart rate and the magnificent afterglow. You can’t deny that exercise and sex cause our bodies to respond in very similar ways.  So would it surprise you if I claimed that one (exercise) will actually improve your performance of the other (sex)?

It’s no surprise that regular exercise goes a long way in keeping us healthy. Well that definitely extends to our sexual health as well. And when it really comes down to it, working out and sex are 2 extra-curricular activities that are more intimately coupled than we realize.

So here are my Top 5 reasons why exercise encourages better sexual health:

1. Lifting weights is just like sex – Pumping iron at the gym gets the testosterone and blood circulating…and it hurts...in that good sorta way! Now I don’t have a medical degree, but I’ll go out on a scientific limb here with this little equation: increased testosterone + increased blood flow = larger libido. Eureka!
2. Exercise boosts sexual arousal – Researchers at the University of Texas examined the sexual response of both females and males after vigorous physical activity. They found that 3 to 5 sessions of regular exercise per week actually prepared the body for sexual activity and improved sexual performance.
3. Sex is just like bedroom yoga – The sexual act tones the body, and improves overall circulation and flexibility. I don’t know about you, but that kinda sounds like another activity I know – YOGA!  It’s true, sex strengthens the pelvic core, which is made up of your glutes (butt), abdominals (tummy), and your calves, quadriceps and hamstrings (legs), the same way that yoga does.
4. Sex and exercise both promote weight loss - Scientific studies show that regular sex (3 times or more per week) triggers the release of growth hormones that encourage weight loss.
5. Going to the gym is an excuse to meet members of the opposite sex - Plus when you consider some of the trendy new classes available - strip aerobics, pole dancing…need I say more!

Is it just me or are the similarities undeniable?

 Obviously the more exercise you do; the better sex you’ll have! Plus when you consider the most popular seductive foods - oysters, strawberries, grapes, red wine…all healthy! I rest my case.

I hope you all enjoyed my post. I won't lie, it was fun to write. I’m actually entering it in a group writing project that was organized by Darren Rowse at Problogger.net. All of the posts will be featured on the Problogger blog, and all follow the “The Top 5” theme. Please follow this link to read the other great Top 5 Posts that were submitted.

I’ll be keeping an eye on the submissions myself, and at the end of the week I’ll announce my Top 5 favorites! Please feel free to share yours with us as well.