Sexual activity before exercise influences physiological response and sports performance in high-level trained men athletes

Abstract

Background The influence of sexual activity prior to exercise on athletic performance remains controversial. While pre-competition abstinence is commonly advised, scientific evidence on its physiological impact is limited and inconsistent. Methods A randomized crossover study was conducted in 21 well-trained male athletes (age 22 ± 1 y) to compare the acute effects of masturbation-induced orgasm versus sexual abstinence performed 30 min before testing. Each participant completed an incremental cycling test and an isometric handgrip strength test under both conditions. Blood samples were analyzed for muscle damage (CK, LDH, Mb), inflammatory (CRP, IL-6), and hormonal (testosterone, cortisol, LH) markers. Results Compared with abstinence, the post-masturbation condition resulted in a longer exercise duration (+3.2%, p < 0.01) and higher heart rate (p < 0.001), accompanied by a small increase in mean handgrip strength (p < 0.05). Lower plasma LDH levels (p < 0.001) indicated reduced muscle stress. Testosterone and cortisol concentrations were significantly higher (both p < 0.001), whereas inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6) showed no significant change. Conclusions Masturbation 30 min before exercise elicited mild sympathetic and hormonal activation without detrimental effects on performance or muscle damage. These findings suggest that pre-exercise sexual activity does not impair athletic capacity in trained men, challenging the long-standing myth of mandatory abstinence before competition.