RT info:eu-repo/semantics/article
T1 Exploring sex activity impact on biological biomarkers and athletic parameters in sexually and physically active healthy adults: A systematic review of clinical trials
A1 Fernández Lázaro, Diego
A1 Seco Calvo, Jesús
A1 Izquierdo Velasco, José María
A1 Mielgo Ayuso, Juan Francisco
A1 Roche Collado, Enrique
A1 SantaMaría Gómez, Gema
AB Background: A sexually active lifestyle is generally associated with positive effects on physical condition and health. However, engaging in sexual activity prior to a sports competition could affect athletic performance. This systematic review examines the current literature on the impact of pre-exercise sexual activity on sports performance, with particular attention paid to its effects on physiological, hormonal, cognitive, and perceptual markers. Method: Based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we systematically reviewed original studies published within the last 25 years. Eligible studies were randomized or non-randomized controlled design and indexed on PubMed, Scopus, Dialnet, and Cochrane. Additional sources were consulted including a network diagram with Connected Papers®. Two methodological quality scales, McMaster University Occupational Therapy Evidence-Based Practice Research Group and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), were used. The study was registered in PROSPERO (#CRD42023426555). Results: A total of 244 records were identified through the search process, of which 7 studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies involved 117 (115 men) physically and sexually active subjects including 29 elite top athletes. When comparing the sexual activity condition/group (SexG) to abstinence (AbsG), significant (p < 0.05) decreases were observed in average speed and maximum strength. In contrast, non-significant trends towards improvement (p > 0.05) were observed in exercise capacity, reaction time, and muscular endurance. No significant changes (p > 0.05) were found in physiological and hormonal biomarkers and fatigue perception. However, perceived exertion was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in SexG compared to AbsG. Conclusions: Current evidence does not conclusively support the influence of pre-exercise sexual activity on sports performance, or physiological and hormonal biomarkers. However, it could contribute to increased perception of exercise intensity.
SN 2673-9488
YR 2025
FD 2025
LK https://uvadoc.uva.es/handle/10324/81994
UL https://uvadoc.uva.es/handle/10324/81994
LA eng
NO Fernández-Lázaro, D., Seco-Calvo, J., Izquierdo, J. M., Mielgo-Ayuso, J., Roche, E., & Santamaría, G. (2025). Exploring Sex Activity Impact on Biological Biomarkers and Athletic Parameters in Sexually and Physically Active Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials. Physiologia, 5(4), 45. https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5040045
DS UVaDOC
RD 29-mar-2026