It seems like you can’t watch any sporting event without getting a heavy dose of Viagra or Cialis commercials. It seems that there is an epidemic of erectile dysfunction that only pharmaceutical companies can cure. But these drugs can have significant side effects and can even be dangerous for segments of the male population with health problems. Exercise has been shown to improve sexual function and help treat or completely prevent erectile dysfunction. Working out on an elliptical provides the kind of intense exercise that will keep you physically fit, and fitness equals a healthy sex life.
Erectile dysfunction is usually caused by a lack of blood flow to the penis. Since exercise improves blood flow throughout the body, it would make sense that it would also help erectile dysfunction. In fact, exercise has been shown to help with this problem just as much as taking Viagra. German scientists, in a paper presented at the European Association of Urology Annual Meeting, found that putting men with erection problems on an exercise program was just as effective at improving erection capacity as taking Viagra. Another study examined the sexual frequency and satisfaction ratings of swimmers in their 60s and found that they were the same as those 20 years younger.
So how does exercise increase blood flow? One way that exercise increases blood flow is by raising nitric oxide levels. Nitric oxide causes blood vessels to dilate, and wider veins mean more blood flow. Exercise is also involved in vascular remodeling, which is the process of rebuilding small veins and capillaries throughout the body, including the penis.
Exercise can also address another cause of erectile dysfunction, low testosterone. Healthy testosterone levels are critical for the penile muscles that trap blood to maintain erections. Regular exercise, especially weight training, has been shown to keep testosterone levels healthy as we age.
Exercise can also improve your sex life by improving your mood. Exercise can help reshape your body, which can help your self-image. Exercise also triggers your body to produce endorphins, which are feel-good chemicals that elevate your mood and help counteract the effects of a stressful life, and nothing depresses your libido like high levels of stress.
Exercise can also help us with healthy sexual function as we age. One study looked at combining a low-fat diet with exercise, and the results were spectacular. Participants not only showed increased blood flow, but also experienced an average 16% drop in blood pressure, a 19% drop in blood pressure readings, cholesterol dropped by 17% and levels triglycerides were reduced by 20%. These are important markers for cardiovascular health, and a strong cardiovascular system can help ensure plenty of flow to the sexual organs as we age. Other lifestyle habits were also important, such as eating a healthy diet and not smoking.
Starting an exercise program with an elliptical trainer is a great way to prevent or even reverse erection problems. An elliptical trainer with movable arms will work the major muscle groups of the entire body. An elliptical workout has a lower rate of perceived exertion compared to other exercises, meaning your workout will seem easier than how hard your body is working. The mobile arms, with a high level of resistance, can exercise the upper body in a similar way to lifting weights, which raises testosterone levels. Providing all of these benefits in one exercise machine is what makes an elliptical trainer so effective in treating erection problems.
So hop on your elliptical trainer and throw out your Viagra and Cialis meds. An exercise program on a new or upgraded elliptical machine can help you maintain healthy sexual function throughout your life.
