kegel exercises, often associated with women, are increasingly gaining popularity among men, too. As it turns out, pelvic floor health is essential for both sexes. Strong pelvic floor muscles offer numerous benefits, including enhanced bladder control and improved sexual function. In this article, we walk through the best kegel exercises for men and provide a comprehensive guide on incorporating them into your daily routine to reap the benefits of a strong pelvic floor.
What are kegel exercises?
kegel exercises, named after Dr. Arnold Kegel who first introduced them, are a series of exercises designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles play a key role in controlling urination, bowel movements, and sexual performance. By practicing kegel exercises regularly, men can improve their overall pelvic health and address issues like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and urinary incontinence.
Identifying the Pelvic Floor Muscles
Before delving into kegel exercises for men, it's crucial to learn how to identify the right muscles. The easiest way to locate the pelvic floor muscles is while urinating:
- Start urinating and try to stop the flow of urine midway.
- Note the muscles you use to stop the flow – those are the pelvic floor muscles.
- Do not make a habit of practicing this during urination; it’s only for identification purposes.
Once you have found the pelvic floor muscles, you are ready to start practicing kegel exercises.
Best kegel exercises for Men
1. Basic Kegels
This is the most straightforward exercise to begin with:
- Contract your pelvic floor muscles for 3-5 seconds.
- Relax the muscles for 3-5 seconds.
- Repeat this process 10-15 times per session.
- Perform three sessions throughout the day.
2. Kegel Hold
This variation challenges you to hold the contraction for a longer duration:
- Contract your pelvic floor muscles and hold for 10 seconds.
- Relax the muscles for 10 seconds.
- Repeat this process 10 times per session.
- Perform three sessions throughout the day.
3. Reverse Kegels
This exercise focuses on relaxation and control of the pelvic floor muscles:
- Relax and gently push your pelvic floor muscles outward as if you are trying to urinate faster.
- Hold the expanded position for 5 seconds.
- Return to the starting position and relax for 5 seconds.
- Repeat this process 10 times per session.
- Perform three sessions throughout the day.
Best kegel exercises For Men Example:
Imagine starting your morning with a session of basic kegel exercises while in bed. You perform 15 repetitions of contracting, holding for 5 seconds, then relaxing your muscles. In the afternoon, during a break at work, you complete another session, this time focusing on Kegel holds, gradually working up to a 10-second contraction. Finally, in the evening, you unwind with a session of reverse Kegels to enhance relaxation and control.
By committing to kegel exercises and incorporating them into your daily routine, you are investing in your overall health and wellness. Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles offers benefits that last a lifetime and can significantly improve your quality of life. Give these exercises a try and experience the difference for yourself. If you found this article helpful, please feel free to share it with friends and explore our other informative guides on pelvic floor therapy. Together, we can embrace better health and well-being.