Can Sex be Considered as a Sport?

Before we get to the answer, we should stop for a moment and take a look into the impact of sex on the mind and body. Although pleasure remains at the heart of the experience, the physical and psychological effects of sex are more numerous than we think.

Sex isn’t all about caresses and tenderness, it actually takes a serious amount of energy. The pelvic muscles, abs, bum cheeks, even the thighs and arms are called upon. Some positions require endurance, others core strength, reminiscent of an improvised gym sesh.

When it comes to cardio, the heart begins to race, breathing quickens, and the blood starts circulating. The result? The body is launched into a form of movement comparable to that of moderate exercise. Depending on the intensity and the length of the session, the experience can range from a simple warm up all the way to a serious workout.

Researchers have measured the energy output of sex and the results are revealing: on average, a 20 to 30 minute session burns between 70 and 150 calories, which equates to a brisk walk or light jog. In more passionate moments, the amount of calories burned can reach up to 250!

This all depends on a number of factors. Someone who weighs more may burn more calories than someone who weighs less doing the same position. Younger people also tend to use more energy than an older person, whose metabolism is slower.

One’s physical condition also plays a part: a less active person may get out of breath quicker, whilst a well trained body will be able to hold out longer… but potentially burn less calories as it’s more used to exercise.

Then there’s the question of enthusiasm: a relaxed, gentle session doesn’t demand the same energy as a more fiery experience, closely resembling cardio, where you’re constantly switching positions.

Sex does a lot of good to the body, aside from simply burning calories. Circulation is favoured, the heart is working hard, and pelvic floor contractions help with muscle tone.

However, the effects are mostly felt in our brains. After sex endorphins are released, provoking a feeling of relaxation and wellbeing that causes almost instant peace. Oxytocin, sometimes called the love hormone, reinforces bond building and trust all whilst promoting sleep. Dopamine reinforces desire and euphoria felt in the moment, whereas prolactin (secreted after orgasm) adds a feeling of satisfaction and tranquility.

An active sex life is also associated with a better immune system, less stress on a daily basis, and even a longer lifespan according to some studies. So sex isn’t just about immediate pleasure: it also contributes to overall balance, both physically and mentally.

Comparing sex to a sports session may seem evident when we think about being short of breath, the heart beating wildly, or twinging muscles. The two get the body moving, demand endurance and provoke a release of hormones that boosts morale. When looking at it this way, it’s true that they don’t seem that different.

Sex and sport, however, differ by their end goals. Where sport is centred around performance, self improvement or sometimes competition; sex has completely different motivations: pleasure, sharing and connecting with one’s partner. We don’t have sex in order to gain a personal best, but in order to savour an intimate moment.

That being said, the two realms feed into each other. Athletic people often have better stamina, more flexibility and a confidence in their body that improves their sex lives. On the contrary, an active, fulfilling sex life acts as a source of energy, reduces stress and promotes the motivation to take care of their physique.

Some people even like to mix the two, integrating positions that demand strength and balance, or considering sex as an add on to their sporting activities. Others point out the fun side to things: where sport requires discipline, sex is a way to exert yourself whilst having obligation free fun.

So, is sex a sport? Not really… but it is pretty similar. Breathing, heartbeat, muscle cramps… and we definitely burn some calories. Just like after any gym session, we’re relaxed, stress free and filled with positive energy.

The main difference is the intention. Sport is about performance, improvement, and sometimes competition. Sex is all about pleasure, bond building and intimacy. No rules, no timer, no winner or loser: simply a shared moment in which we take care of our bodies… and our minds.

So we can say that sexuality isn’t necessarily a sport, but it deserves a place in the long list of physical activities that are beneficial for one's health. It’s a fun and natural way to keep active, reinforce bonds with your partner and improve one’s health, without even having to think about it.