You hit the gym, smash your sets, and feel like a Greek god or at least like someone who deserves a protein shake and a nap. But then something comes into your mind that should you cap that workout with a little me-time cardio? The debate about sex, masturbation, and sports performance has been around since ancient athletes swore abstinence gave them strength.
But modern science offers a fresher (and funnier) perspective. While research is limited, what we do know about sexual activity, hormones, and recovery might surprise you. Let’s flex some science muscles and find out!
1. Masturbation vs. Athletic Performance
Research shows that sexual activity before competition usually doesn’t hurt performance in endurance or strength sports. In fact, most studies suggest that unless you’re running straight from the bedroom to the 100-meter sprint, you’ll be fine.
However, doing the deed less than two hours before competing might zap a little energy or focus (Stefani et al., 2016). Sadly, no one has done a clinical trial on athletes and masturbation specifically but the general consensus is that self-love isn’t ruining your gains.
2. The Feel-Good Chemicals: Endocannabinoids and Orgasms
Masturbation to orgasm increases plasma levels of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (Fuss et al., 2017). That means your body releases natural chemicals similar to the ones in cannabis minus the munchies.
These chemicals help regulate mood, reward, and even pain perception. After a tough workout, masturbation might actually enhance your recovery by boosting relaxation and giving you that extra dopamine sparkle. Basically, your cool-down could involve stretching… or something more personal.
3. Hormones, Testosterone, and Cortisol
Some athletes worry masturbation might lower testosterone, the holy grail of muscle gains. But a pilot study on young men found no conclusive evidence that it significantly affects testosterone or cortisol levels (Isenmann et al., 2021).
In other words, whether you choose to do it or not, your hormone levels aren’t tanking after a quick solo session. Science still needs more research here, but so far, there’s no reason to fear a dip in your “T” from occasional post-gym pleasure.
Conclusion
So, should you masturbate after a workout? The short answer: if you feel like it, absolutely! The science shows no serious downsides, and there may even be some recovery and relaxation benefits.
References
- Stefani, L., Galanti, G., & Maffulli, N. (2016). Sexual Activity before Sports Competition: A Systematic Review
- Fuss, J., Briken, P., Stein, D. J., & Klucken, T. (2017). Masturbation to Orgasm Stimulates the Release of the Endocannabinoid 2-Arachidonoylglycerol in Humans.
- Isenmann, E., et al. (2021). Hormonal response after masturbation in young healthy men – a randomized controlled cross-over pilot study
25 Secrets of Better Intimacy
Let's Upgrade your love life
Get It for Free Now.
