Does viewing sex as exercise justify skipping the gym? Here is what Americans think. We also have insights from sex educator Javay Frye-Nekrasova (MEd). She explains how to make popular positions less demanding.
Can Sex as Exercise Replace Your Workout?
Our survey of 2,000 adults found 71% consider sex as exercise. Responses varied slightly by gender.
Seventy-three percent of men said yes. Seventy percent of women agreed.
Sexual orientation also plays a role. 92% of lesbians and 83% of bisexuals agree. Only 40% of asexuals and 67% of heterosexuals agree.
Which Cities Are Most Enthusiastic?
Certain cities are more inclined to count sex as exercise.
Residents of Las Vegas (83%) and Salt Lake City (82%) were most likely to agree.
Charlotte (80%) and Milwaukee (79%) followed. Only 53% of San Diegans felt the same.
Additionally, 56% of Charleston and Seattle residents also agreed with this view.
Tracking Calories and Heart Rate During Sex
Fitness tech like smartwatches are now commonplace. Many people monitor physical stats during sex.
Our survey found 10% of Americans track calories every time. 11% do so regularly.
Men are twice as likely as women to track these stats. 16% of men and 8% of women keep tabs.
Heart rate tracking is more popular. 11% of respondents track it every time.
12% do so regularly and 15% track occasionally.
Watching heart rate fluctuations during intimacy offers interesting insights into physical arousal.
Which Sex Positions Are the Most Physically Demanding?
Certain positions are more challenging than others. Doggy style is the most physically demanding for 28% of respondents.
Specifically, 34% of men find it particularly challenging.
For women, reverse cowgirl is the most intense position. This often requires more core stability and leg strength.
Tips to Make Popular Positions Easier
Many people find these popular positions physically demanding. However, with a few adjustments, they can become more comfortable.
Javay Frye-Nekrasova offers the following advice:
Reverse Cowgirl: To avoid leg cramps, stretch beforehand. Work on lower body strength with squats or lunges if you do this position often.
Standing Positions: Use support like a wall or sturdy surface. Adding a pillow for comfort or a chair for balance can also help.
Doggy Style: Strengthening wrists provides better support. Sex pillows can add comfort and stability. Frye-Nekrasova recommends stretching with child's pose yoga beforehand.
Health Benefits of Sex Beyond Physical Fitness
Sex offers both physical and mental health benefits. It improves heart health and lowers blood pressure.
Regular activity also helps in strengthening muscles. Sexual activity releases endorphins and oxytocin.
These hormones promote deep relaxation and relieve stress. They can boost immune function and lead to better sleep.
Counting sex as exercise varies by individual. A healthy sex life supports physical and mental well-being.
Whether you count calories or enjoy the moment, the overall benefits are undeniable.
Making Intimacy Part of a Balanced Fitness Routine
Sex can add movement to your day, but it shouldn't replace every form of exercise.
Physical effort varies based on duration, intensity, and positions. Some sessions may raise your heart rate.
Others focus more on connection and relaxation. Listen to your body and take breaks.
Combining enjoyable intimacy with walking or strength training supports a balanced lifestyle.
Most importantly, do not turn every intimate moment into a fitness challenge.
Focus on comfort, connection, and pleasure rather than calories. Your overall well-being matters more than any single workout.
Remember, intimacy looks different for everyone. Enjoy movement at your own pace.
Communicate openly with your partner and prioritize comfort over performance. Every body deserves care.
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