Most often, when someone is suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED), adopting an exercise routine is not immediately considered to be a viable remedy. But emerging research continues to support the efficacy for non-invasive treatment of ED with physical activity. A recent study found that 40 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week can significantly decrease erectile dysfunction.
Living in a society where heart disease is the number one killer among both sexes, ED is a common symptom of cardiovascular disease due to arterial dysfunction in men. Other cardiovascular risk factors that usually accompany ED include: obesity, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, along with a sedentary lifestyle. Currently, patients are given different medications to treat ED, however this only temporarily restores erectile function and has not been affective with a significant amount of men who experience ED. Furthermore, it does not have any effect on improving vascular function, which is the most prevalent underlying cause of erectile dysfunction. Physical activity is the lifestyle factor that is positively associated with erectile function, and is the most important promoter of vascular health.
There is robust evidence that physical activity significantly improves erectile function, and is a very long-lasting non-invasive method to decrease ED, while improving overall vascular health. More specifically, erectile function improves in men with ED due to arterial dysfunction when they participate in 40 minutes of aerobic activity, done at least 4 days/week at moderate to vigorous intensities for at least 6 months. Other lifestyle interventions that can improve arterial ED include: smoking cessation, a healthy diet, and pelvic floor exercises. Physical activity is the most affective non-invasive lifestyle habit to improve cardiovascular health and erectile function that does not require any medical intervention. Beyond the obvious benefits of exercise, this is yet another reason to get on the exercise bandwagon to promote sexual health.
Examples of Moderate Physical Activity:
- Brisk Walking
- Gardening
- Cycling at less than 10 mph
- Doubles Tennis
- Water Aerobics
Examples of Vigorous Physical Activity:
- Running or Jogging
- Swimming
- Uphill or Weighted Hiking
- Singles Tennis
- Bicycling at 10 mph or faster
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