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. 2025 Aug;125(8):2077-2086.
doi: 10.1007/s00421-025-05734-0. Epub 2025 Feb 26.

Influence of physical activity practice on sexual function in men: a systematic review

Marianne Lucena da Silva  1 , Liana Barbaresco Gomide Matheus  2 , Ana Claudia de Souza Alves Braga  3 , Miguel Luciano Rodrigues da Silva Junior  4 , Lucas Alves Jaques  4 , Diego Vieira de Mattos  3 , Katiane da Costa Cunha  4 , Aline Teixeira Alves  5
Affiliations

Influence of physical activity practice on sexual function in men: a systematic review

Marianne Lucena da Silva et al. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2025 Aug.

Abstract

Background: While the health benefits of regular physical activity are well-documented, there is limited evidence specifically addressing its impact on male sexual function.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted to investigate the influence of physical activity practice on sexual function in men. The studies were sourced from PubMed, Embase, Virtual Health Library, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane through May 2024.The recommendations and criteria described in the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and Cochrane Handbook were followed. Two independent reviewers assessed the quality of the literature.

Results: A total of 15 studies were eligible. According to the studies, physical exercise is highly associated with better sexual function in patients without comorbidities, patients with diabetes mellitus, patients with chronic heart failure, and patients of different races. Exercise influences the production of nitric oxide, improves insulin sensitivity, reduces levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and increases testosterone levels. These effects can help maintain arterial stiffness, improve vascular function, support the maintenance of male erection, and improve sexual dysfunctions.

Clinical implications: Healthcare professionals might consider prescribing exercise for men with sexual dysfunction.

Conclusion: This systematic review provides evidence that physical activity practice improves sexual function.

Keywords: Erectile dysfunction; Exercise; Men's health; Physical activity; Sexual activity.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declarations. Conflict of interest: None.

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