sleep
Sex counts as cardio! A romp can burn anywhere from 355 to 1 045kJ, depending on the length of the session (obviously a quickie will be less strenuous than an all-night pleasure-fest), says Meston. In fact, cardiologists consider sexual activity comparable to a modest workout on a treadmill, according to a study published in the American Journal of Cardiology.
“When a woman orgasms, her uterus contracts and, in the process, rids the body of cramp-causing compounds,” explains Meston. The increased number of uterine contractions can also help expel blood and tissue more quickly, helping to end your period faster, she adds.
Going horizontal while menstruating has also been shown to help decrease the risk for endometriosis, a common condition in which uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, causing pelvic pain and sex that hurts, according to researchers.
You know those pelvic floor muscles we keep telling you to tone with Kegel exercises? Research shows that they can improve your sex life; in particular, the quantity, ease and quality of orgasms. But simply being aware of these muscles when you’re indulging in sexercise could have a similar effect, says Corina Avni, specialist pelvic function physiotherapist at Kingsbury Hospital.
Get busy to get gorgeous: in a study conducted at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital, a panel of judges viewed participants through a one-way mirror and guessed their ages. Those who were enjoying lots of nooky with a steady partner – four times a week, on average – were perceived to be seven to 12 years younger than their actual age.
There’s nothing sexy about sneezing, wheezing or that runny-nose look. But getting hot and bothered can help you avoid coming down with the sniffles: people who have sex were found to have higher levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin A (IgA), according to researchers. These antibodies help combat diseases and keep the body safe from colds and flu. Save up your sick days and use them as sex days!
When you’re depressed, your libido goes on strike, leading to both a lack of interest in sex and difficulty reaching orgasm, says psychologist Dr Eugene Viljoen. While having regular sex can’t cure depression, a sexy session with your own love doctor can boost your mood. “Having sex stimulates the release of endorphins, which can give you a feeling of euphoria, or a natural high, leaving you feeling happier, healthier and more focused,” says Viljoen.
Talk about flipping the script: “Yes, tonight, honey – I have a headache.” The surge of hormones released after an orgasm can help ease any annoying ache, whether it’s a strained back or a head pounder, says Meston. A US study found that half of female migraine sufferers reported relief after climaxing.
It’s downright dreamy how an O can lull you to sleep. That’s because the same endorphins that help you de-stress can also relax your mind and body, priming you for slumber, says clinical psychologist Prof Cindy Meston, co-author of Why Women Have Sex. Plus, during orgasm, the hormone prolactin is released.
If you’re freaking out about tomorrow’s job interview, slip between the sheets. Research from the University of the West of Scotland reveals that people who had intercourse at least once over two weeks were better able to manage stressful situations such as public speaking, says study author and psychology professor Stuart Brody.
It's downright dreamy how an O can lull you to sleep. That's because the same endorphins that help you de-stress can also relax your mind and body, priming you for slumber, says clinical psychologist Prof Cindy Meston, co-author of Why Women Have Sex. Plus, during orgasm, the hormone prolactin is released. "Prolactin levels are naturally higher when we sleep, which suggests a strong relationship between the two," she says. But if you're wild in the sack, take note: highly active sex can make you feel more energised than sleepy.
Women complain about guys passing out the second sex is over. But don't whine – gloat. For him, the rush ends abruptly. For you, sex isn't over even when it's over. "It can take us anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes to come down from an orgasm," says Fulbright, "with bodily changes including reduced breast swelling, the clitoris returning to its normal position, a shrinking uterus and 'deflating' of the vagina, and a return to our resting pulse rate, blood pressure, and breathing." Talk about a full-body workout.
A recent study linked poor sleeping habits to a less-than-stellar sex life.
Exercise will help improve the quality of your sleep – if you time it correctly. Working out late in the day can actually leave you staring at the ceiling in bed, since it can take three to four hours for your body to cool down afterwards.
"When your core body temperature is too high and your heart rate is too fast, it can keep you awake," points out Govender. It's best to exercise at least four hours before bedtime.
Better yet, hit the gym in the morning or at lunch – you'll feel the energy-boosting effects for hours.
Being sleep-deprived messes with your hormone levels and depletes your energy, resulting in ineffective workouts and cravings for sugar as a source of quick energy. What’s more, your body repairs itself best when you’re sleeping.
Need some motivation to switch off American Idol reruns? A study at Stanford University had 1000 volunteers report the number of hours they slept each night. The people who got less than eight hours of sleep per night had higher body fat content. Aim for seven to eight hours a night.
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