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Running helps prevent erectile dysfunction, new study says

For those looking to enhance their bedroom performance naturally, lacing up your running shoes and hitting the pavement could be the ticket. According to recent research in Harvard Health, regular aerobic activity can significantly improve erectile dysfunction (ED) symptoms, offering a safe and effective solution.

Running is a low-risk and inexpensive therapy that not only improves ED but also boosts overall health. Here’s why your love life (and your overall health) may thank you for starting a regular running regime.

A drug-free remedy

When most people think of ED treatments, medications like Viagra and Cialis typically come to mind. A study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine suggests that aerobic exercise can be just as effective, particularly for men with severe ED. The study reviewed 11 randomized controlled trials involving more than 1,000 men with mild to moderate ED. The findings were clear: men who engaged in 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise three to five times a week experienced notable improvements in their erectile function, compared to those who did not exercise.

Men with severe ED saw an average improvement of 4.9 points on a 6-30 scale (where higher scores indicate better function), comparable to the improvement typically seen with ED medications. Exercise also doesn’t come with the potential side effects associated with these drugs, such as headaches, vision changes and chest pain. The benefits of aerobic exercise for ED are supported by additional research, including a Harvard University study involving more than 22,000 men aged 40-75. This study found that men who ran for one and a half hours or engaged in three hours of rigorous outdoor activity weekly were 20 per cent less likely to develop ED than those who didn’t exercise.

Why running works

Why does exercise have such a positive impact on erectile function? Exercise promotes overall cardiovascular health, which is closely linked to erectile function. Healthy blood flow is essential for maintaining an erection. Regular exercise also aids in reducing weight, lowering blood pressure and improving blood sugar control, all of which are risk factors for ED.

Exercise also improves the function of endothelial cells, which line blood vessels and regulate the exchange between the bloodstream and surrounding tissues; better endothelial function results in improved vascular and erectile health. Physical activity can temporarily boost testosterone levels, which can enhance libido and erectile function. Exercise helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which can contribute to ED.

Healthcare providers are increasingly recognizing the value of exercise for managing ED, making it a recommended strategy for those seeking an alternative to medication, and yet another reason to put on your running shoes.