For those of you who are still doubtful whether to jump on the running bandwagon, here’s one more to that long list of benefits—it makes you last longer and perform better in bed. Yes, it is true, runners have great sex lives. Don’t take our word for it. Here’s proof that running is the best shortcut to a “happy ending.

Running And Sex

Boosts Libido

The first step toward having a good sex life is to have a healthy sex drive or libido. A 2013 study conducted by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin, which studied the effects of exercise on women taking antidepressants that have libido-damaging effects, provides enough proof that running and other aerobic activities can boost sex drive. The study concluded that exercising 30 minutes prior to having sex reduced the effects of the medicines and boosted libido.³

Leads To Increased Levels Of Testosterone

Testosterone levels play a major role in regulating libido in both men and women. It is scientifically proven that those with higher circulating levels of testosterone tend to engage in more sexual activity. In women, testosterone levels increase around and during ovulation, which is when they tend to feel more sexually aroused.⁴ There is enough and more scientific proof for the fact that running helps boost testosterone levels, which, in turn, translates to better sex. A few studies that found the same are:

• Researchers from the University of Cambridge’s Division of Biological Anthropology compared the race timings and finger lengths of 542 marathoners.⁵ Why finger lengths, you may be wondering! Previous research has found that a 2D:4D ratio, or to put it simply, having a longer ring finger as compared with your index finger, indicates high levels of testosterone in the body.⁶ The study found that there was a significant positive correlation between the race times and the digit lengths, which means that fast endurance runners are not just on top of their running game but perform well in bed as well.⁷
• Researchers also found that regular physical exercise (10 or more hours a week) may help increase testosterone in women.⁸
• Running for less than two hours has been found to increase levels of testosterone in your body, according to a study at the University of North Carolina. The study, published in the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation, however, warns runners against going overboard as over-training will only lead to a subsequent drop in testosterone levels.⁹

Enables Faster And More Intense Orgasms

As they say, all is well that ends well. This is particularly true for sex. Running can help reach a satisfying climax. In a study of over 5,500 Finnish women in their 40s and 50s, researchers found a significant positive pattern seen with respect to strenuous exercise and orgasm experiences.¹⁰ The Texas study also observed that women who exercised before having sex were aroused more quickly and were able to orgasm faster and more intensely

Improves Self-Image

Self-confidence is key to sexual performance. Running helps deal with body image issues and leaves you appreciating your body and what it can do. It has been proven to increase body confidence and self-image. A 2008 study conducted at Florida Atlantic University found that men and women who exercised frequently were more likely to rate themselves higher in sexual desirability.¹² It also found that physical activity like running made women’s bodies more sensitive to touch, while men reported better orgasms and improved sexual function.

Helps Manage Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Estimates suggest that 1 in every 10 men suffers from erectile dysfunction at some point in his life. And, guess what, as running gets your blood flowing at a healthy pace, it also helps alleviate erectile dysfunction.¹³

Running is, therefore, a good way to boost your sexual performance. But remember to maintain a balance in your regime. Do not go overboard as it might backfire and tire you out.